Mattel recalls Fisher-Price Snuga Infant Swings after the tragic loss of five infants due to suffocation risks.
At a Glance
- Fisher-Price recalled components of the Snuga Swings due to suffocation risks.
- Five infant deaths reported between 2012 and 2022.
- Consumers advised to remove specific swing parts for a $25 refund.
- The recall affects 2.1 million swings in the U.S. market.
- Fisher-Price has a history of recalls linked to infant deaths.
Details of the Recall
Fisher-Price has issued a recall for the headrest and seat pad insert of its Snuga Infant Swings after five infant deaths over a ten-year period. The swings, known for their dual-motion calming capabilities, have been sold across major retailers like Toys R Us and Amazon. Consumers are advised to uninstall the aforementioned components and can receive a partial refund of $25 upon proof of removal. The recall initiative impacts approximately 2.1 million swings within the United States.
The recall, executed in collaboration with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), has been noted as a corrective measure rather than a complete product recall. Richard Trumka Jr. from the CPSC has expressed criticism towards the sufficiency of the recall, arguing that it fails to provide a full solution and continues to place infants at risk.
#RECALL: More than 2 million Fisher-Price Snuga Infant Swings, all models, due to suffocation hazard; 5 deaths reported. Get repair and partial refund. CONTACT: Fisher-Price toll-free at 855-853-6224, https://t.co/qcX9yJpqVH or https://t.co/4rF8VWXRpyhttps://t.co/T4GWSPabff pic.twitter.com/QGkz4zS02s
— US Consumer Product Safety Commission (@USCPSC) October 10, 2024
CPSC’s Insights and Concerns
The CPSC strongly recommends against using the swings for sleep and emphasizes the dangers of adding bedding like blankets which can increase the risk of suffocation. The swing’s design for use with infants up to nine months old includes a dual motion feature—front-to-back and side-to-side. Safety experts continue to advise against inclined sleeper products due to potential hazards. “I believe that the flawed recall that Fisher-Price is announcing today is doomed to fail and will keep many babies in harm’s way,” Trumka said.
Past incidents have also highlighted Fisher-Price’s history with similar recalls. In 2022, infant deaths linked to its Infant-to-Toddler Rockers prompted warnings, albeit without a recall. Inclined sleepers with angles greater than ten degrees, such as rockers and gliders, have also been banned by Congress due to these safety concerns.
Comprehensive Safety Measures
Parents and caregivers are advised not to leave infants unsupervised in swings or include plush items during sleep, reducing suffocation hazards. In 2019, a significant recall of Fisher-Price’s Rock ‘n Play sleepers led to further infant deaths, indicative of ongoing safety issues. Collaborating with Health Canada and Mexico’s Consumer Protection Federal Agency, the recall spans internationally with over 99,000 recalls in Canada and 500 in Mexico.
“Mattel is recalling all models of its Fisher-Price Snuga infant swings after five deaths were reported from suffocation hazards between 2012 and 2022, the consumer protection authority and the toymaker said.
Precautionary measures are more crucial than ever. Parents should uphold strict observance to CPSC guidelines and ensure no additional bedding is included when infants are using the swings. The unfortunate tragic events underline the increased need for awareness and precaution amid infant care products in households. With Mattel’s coordinated efforts alongside international agencies, wider safety compliance is anticipated.
