Angelcare Recalls 600,000 Baby Monitors
Angelcare is recalling 600,000 baby monitors after receiving reports of two deaths. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced that two babies were killed when the cords got wrapped around their necks.
The recall includes Angelcare Movement and Sound Monitors with Sensor Pads. Model numbers, which are found on the back of the unit, include: AC1100, AC201, AC300, AC401 and 49255. The recalled models were manufactured between 1999 and 2013.
The $100 to $300 monitors were sold at Amazon.com, Babies R Us/Toys R Us, Burlington Coat Factory, Meijer, Overstock.com, Sears, Target.com, Wal-Mart, and numerous specialty stores.
The pads were designed to be placed under a crib mattress to monitor a baby’s movement. Unfortunately, the cord attached to the pad is a strangulation risk.
Although some models include a cord cover, several do not. KTLA News reports that in addition to the recall, the company is also offering a repair kit, which includes a cord cover and installation instructions.
The reported deaths occurred when the babies managed to pull the 11-foot cords into their cribs. According to the CPSC, the victims include a 13-month-old girl in San Diego and an 8-month-old girl in Salem, Oregon. The first was in 2004 and the latest in 2011.
Although the incidents happened several years ago, spokesman Scott Wolfson said the CPSC announced the recall “as quickly as it could.” As reported by CNN, Wolfson said the agency had to collect information before they were permitted to announce the Angelcare recall.
In 2011, the CPSC began a campaign to raise awareness about electrical cord injuries. Between 2002 and 2011, seven infants and toddlers were strangled to death with baby monitor cords. The ages of the victims ranged between 6 months and 20 months.
The agency recommends keeping cribs, playpens, and bassinets, at least three feet from any electrical cords. The also advise against placing monitors inside the crib or within a baby’s reach.
The Angelcare recall includes sales online. Wolfson said sales of recalled products online are prohibited by law.
[Image via Flickr]
