2 Million Baby Strollers Recalled
CHICAGO (CBS) - Two million Graco baby strollers are being recalled due to the risk of entrapment and strangulation. CBS 2's Roseanne Tellez reports.
Graco is a popular brand. And this is the second major recall for the company since January. Strollers recalled then posed a risk of finger amputation because of a hinge.
But the risk in this latest recall, which is mostly to babies under 12 months, is far worse. Though no longer made by the company, an estimated two million Graco Quattro and MetroLite strollers are still in use, putting children at risk of strangulation.
The strollers were sold between 2000 and 2007. The Consumer Product Safety Commission and Graco report four deaths and five entrapments, when children who were not harnessed, slipped between the seat and tray of their strollers. It's called submarining.
Nancy Cowles, with the non-profit group Kids in Danger, says it's about time for this recall.
"What's concerning is that the deaths took place in '03 and '05, and yet we're just hearing in 2010," said Cowles. "We have seen this problem with recalls coming way after the death or injury."
In fact, the Graco strollers recalled Wednesday were still sold for two years following the last reported death.
Cowles says the company did not report the deaths at the time.
People we talked to around Chicago were appalled about the lag time.
"I think it's ridiculous. Think of all the babies in that stroller," said mom Jennifer Wiesman. "It's irresponsible, really."
Dixie Heinrich, who was strolling her grandson, said: "For the safety of our children, we need to get these off the market and not give them to parents who are not educated or informed."
Kids in Danger advises parents to be sure and follow the instructions on your stroller, whatever the brand, and immediately report any problems you experience.
Starting in March, any problems reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission will be placed in a public database that anyone can access. That will be another great tool for parents.
If you have one of the recalled strollers, you should stop using it immediately, and contact Graco for a free repair kit.
For more information on the stroller recall, click here.
