CPSC, Graco Announce Recall of Infant Swings
Description
Graco is offering a free, new safety restraint to replace the old restraint systems of swings made before November 1997. These new restraints will upgrade older swings. The restraint systems on the older swings consist of a waist belt only and a hinged or removable tray, which serves as a restraint.. The safety restraint kit comes with instructions and can be installed easily. The new safety system has a buckle that assures the crotch strap is used each time the waist belt is buckled, so that infants are securely fastened into the swings.
Hazard
The restraint systems on the older swings consist of a waist belt only and a hinged or removable tray, which serves as a restraint. If parts are missing, the restraints are not used, or the tray pops off, infants can slip down into the seat and strangle or fall from the swing.
Reported Incidents
There have been six deaths. These occurred when parts were missing or the restraints were not used and infants slid down the swings' seats and became tangled in the restraints. In five instances, the swings were second-hand. Of 209 incidents, 181 were reports of infants falling from the swing. In nine of the falls, infants suffered serious injuries including bone fractures and concussions. Twenty-two infants were caught at the neck or chest.
Remedy
Consumers should stop using the swings immediately. To receive the free safety restraint, consumers should call Graco. Consumers should have the swing in front of them when they call so that Graco can determine if the swing needs the new safety restraint.