Fisher-Price Recalls 4.7 Million Infant Swings After 8 Reports of Strangulation

Background:

Fisher-Price, a renowned toy manufacturer, has issued a massive recall of approximately 4.7 million infant swings due to concerns related to strangulation. This recall follows eight reported incidents involving infants who became entrapped in the swing's straps, leading to serious injuries, including one fatality.

Affected Products:

The recall affects Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleepers and Glider Soothers models manufactured between September 2009 and April 2019. These swings were widely distributed and sold at major retailers, including:

• Amazon
• Walmart
• Target
• Buy Buy Baby

Hazards and Injuries:

The potential hazard associated with the recalled swings lies in their rigid straps. If an infant rolls or otherwise moves within the swing, the straps can tighten around their neck, potentially resulting in:

• Strangulation: As the straps constrict, they can cut off the infant's airway, leading to asphyxiation.
• Head injuries: The tight straps can also exert pressure on the infant's skull, causing injuries such as bruising or skull fractures.

Recall and Consumer Actions:

In response to the safety concerns, Fisher-Price has urged consumers to immediately stop using the recalled swings. The company has established a dedicated recall website where consumers can check if their swing is affected and report any incidents.

To initiate the recall process, consumers can either:

• Contact Fisher-Price customer service: 1-800-432-5437
• Visit the recall website: https://service.mattel.com/us/recall/fisher-price-rock-n-play-sleeper-and-glider-soother.aspx

Alternative Sleeping Arrangements:

For families affected by the recall, it is crucial to find alternative sleeping arrangements for their infants. The following recommendations are provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):

• Use CPSC-approved cribs: These cribs meet strict safety standards and provide a safe sleeping environment for infants.
• Place infants on their backs: Always place infants on their backs to sleep, as this position reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
• Avoid using blankets or pillows: Never use blankets or pillows in an infant's crib, as they can pose a suffocation hazard.

Tips and Tricks:

• Check the recall status: Regularly check the Fisher-Price recall website to ensure your swing is not affected.
• Store swings safely: If you have a recalled swing, store it out of reach of children until it can be returned or disposed of.
• Educate caregivers: Inform caregivers, babysitters, and anyone else who interacts with your infant about the recall and the importance of using safe sleeping practices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using the swing as a bed: Recalled swings are not intended for overnight use as they do not meet the safety standards for cribs.
• Leaving infants unattended: Never leave an infant unattended in a swing.
• Assuming other models are unaffected: Only the specific Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleeper and Glider Soother models mentioned in the recall are affected.

Step-by-Step Approach:

1. Check recall status: Visit the Fisher-Price recall website to determine if your swing is affected.
2. Stop using the swing: If your swing is recalled, immediately discontinue use and store it safely.
3. Contact Fisher-Price: Call the customer service hotline or visit the recall website to report the recalled swing and initiate the return process.
4. Secure alternative sleeping arrangements: Use CPSC-approved cribs and follow safe sleeping practices for your infant.
5. Spread awareness: Inform caregivers and anyone who interacts with your infant about the recall and the importance of safe sleeping.

Conclusion:

The Fisher-Price swing recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of product safety and the need for consumers to be vigilant in monitoring recalls. By following the recommended actions, consumers can help protect their infants from potential hazards. Remember, infant safety should always be the top priority.