After reports of more than 30 infant deaths, baby toy and furniture manufacturer Fisher-Price just recalled all 4.7 million units of their product, the Rock 'n Play Sleeper.
The Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleeper (Fisher-Price)
The vibrating cradle used to put babies to sleep is thought to have resulted in fatalities after “infants rolled from their back to their stomach or side while unrestrained”, explains the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Also read: Good news: Child mortality is on the decrease in SA
Initially, Fisher-Price urged parents not to use the sleeper with babies who can roll over, but the American Academy of Pediatrics called for a total recall. As of 12 April the product has officially been taken off the market.
Chuck Scothon, general manager at Fisher-Price, said that the company prides itself on the quality and safety of their products, which is why they’ve made the decision to voluntarily recall all units of the Rock 'n Play Sleeper.
“The long, proud tradition this company has of prioritising safety is a cornerstone of our mission. With this action we want parents around the world to know that we have every intention of continuing that tradition,” he assured.
Also read: Dangerous children's toys and hazards to look out for
Parent24 contacted Angelika Sansotta, brand manager for Mattel South Africa, who echoed Scothon's statement. She also added and assured South African parents that "95% of the products [were] sold in the US" and "Mattel did not sell direct to retailers in the South African market."
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