I’m getting tired of writing about drop-side crib recalls. If you have any drop-side crib, it’s dangerous. Check online to find out if there has been a recall of your particular crib. Stop using it if you can.
The latest crib recall by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is one produced by Ethan Allen, of Danbury, Connecticut. Here is an excerpt from the recall announcement:
Hazard: The crib’s drop-side rail hardware can malfunction, detach or otherwise fail, causing part of the drop side rail to detach from the crib. When the drop-side rail partially detaches, it creates a space between the drop side and the crib mattress. An infant or toddler’s body can become entrapped in the space, which can lead to strangulation and/or suffocation. A child can also fall out of the crib. Drop-side incidents can also occur due to incorrect assembly and with age-related wear and tear.
Incidents/Injuries: Ethan Allen has received five reports of incidents involving the crib’s drop-side detaching, resulting in bumps and bruises to three children. One child became entrapped and two children fell out of the crib after the drop side detached, one child received a pinched hand and one child received an unspecified injury.
Description: This recall involves Ethan Allen brand cribs with item numbers 14-5650, 15-5650, 16-5650, 26-5650, 35-5622, 36-5620, 36-5622 and 38-5622. “Ethan Allen” and the item number are printed on a label on the crib’s headboard or footboard. The cribs were sold in a variety of colors.
Sold at: Ethan Allen stores from January 2002 through December 2008 for between $550 and $900.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled drop-side cribs and contact any Ethan Allen store to receive a free repair kit that will immobilize the drop-side rail. In the meantime, parents are urged to find an alternate, safe sleeping environment for the child, such as a bassinet, play yard or toddler bed depending on the child’s age.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Ethan Allen toll-free at (888) 339-9398 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, contact the local Ethan Allen store or visit the firm’s website at www.ethanallen.com.
