A March 2020 Consumer Reports investigation revealed that an additional 19 deaths have been linked to the Fisher-Price Rock n’ Play Sleeper. The news comes as an unwelcome update to the October 2019 Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report that revealed 73 deaths were attributed to the Rock n’ Play Sleeper, putting the reported death toll at 92 children.
Fisher Price Recall Long Overdue
After reports for many years of deaths and injuries to babies nationwide, Fisher Price finally announced in April 2019 that it was recalling 4.7 million Rock n’ Play sleepers and pulling any sleepers on shelves immediately. Marta Tellando, the President and CEO of Consumer Reports, said the recall was long overdue citing the nearly 100 deaths caused by using the Rock n, Play Sleepers.
The recall urges customers who own a Rock n’ Play sleeper to stop using the product immediately, and to contact Fisher Price for a refund or voucher. Fisher Price, which is owned by Mattel, is now the largest company to face recalls on baby sleepers.
Fisher Price Rock n’ Play sleepers are made primarily in China, and cost customers approximately $40 – $149. This recall includes all models of the Rock n’ Play Sleepers.
Baby Sleepers are Dangerous for Infants
The baby sleeper-related deaths have reportedly happened in a few different ways. For example, one baby’s airways were squeezed when his head slumped forward, cutting off the baby’s ability to breathe. Another infant reportedly rolled out of the sleeper and fell to the floor. The sleepers that have been recalled for harming babies are all inclined sleepers, and experts point to this feature as the reason why the sleepers are so dangerous. Medical experts say that babies should be placed flat on their back alone and free from soft bedding. At no time should a baby be using an inclined sleeper, even with adult supervision.
The Fisher Price Rock n’ Play Sleeper does not follow the recommendations of these medical professionals. Additionally, an independent investigation concluded by the CPSC in 2019 found that no baby sleeper with an incline over 10 degrees was safe for babies. The baby sleepers that have been recalled up until this point have been between 10 and 30 degrees.
It’s estimated that 3,600 children under the age of one die each year while sleeping, as reported in 2017 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The makers of baby sleepers have the responsibility to make sure their products function properly and are safe for babies.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-934-6555
More Baby Sleeper Brand Recalls
The Fisher Price “Rock n’ Play” isn’t the only sleeper causing injuries and deaths. Kids II recalled all rocking sleepers in April 2019 after five infant deaths were reported. That recall covered approximately 700,000 sleepers that were sold at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Toys “R” Us between 2012 and 2019. Other sleepers included in recalls have been founds in a variety of brick-and-mortar stores, as well as online at retailers such as Amazon. Nearly 165,000 more baby sleepers from a variety of other brands have been recalled because of risks to babies turning while asleep and then being unable to breathe. Brands named in the 2019 recalls include:
- Kids II
- Graco
- Evenflo
- Summer Infant Brands
- Delta Children
CPSC Chairman Bob Adler cautioned parents and daycare workers against using sleepers, even if they’re not on the list of nearly 5 million recalled sleepers. All sleepers, says Adler, pose risks for children, especially children less than a year old.
Government officials, along with the CPSC, have proposed legislation to ban inclined sleepers like the Rock n’ Play Sleeper because of the infant deaths reported.
Parents and guardians can check the Consumer Product Safety Commission for any recalls on baby and toddler products.
How Can We Help?
Companies, especially those that make products for children and babies, have a responsibility to follow any and all safety guidelines for their consumers. When these companies don’t follow proper protocols and safety measures, babies and young children can get hurt.
Losing a child is the worst pain parents can experience in their lives. Pintas & Mullins is here to help any parent or guardian fight against the manufacturers of faulty baby sleepers and make sure that no other child loses his/her life. A product liability lawyer from our firm will evaluate your case and walk you through the process. Plaintiffs might be eligible for significant compensatory damages via settlement negotiations or court verdicts. The lawsuit might take a while, but your attorney will be there every step of the way, ensuring you and your baby get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call our firm today for a free consultation and legal advice. We don’t get paid unless you receive a settlement for your case.
Call or text 800-934-6555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
