You’ve probably heard the recent buzz surrounding Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play sleepers.
While the safety of this popular baby product has been questioned for several years now, all models of the Rock n’ Play were officially recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Friday. The recall includes 4.7 MILLION sleepers. Wow.
UPDATE: #Recall: 4.7 Million @FisherPrice Rock ‘N Play Sleepers Due to Reports of Infant Deaths. Stop using the product and contact Fisher-Price for a refund or voucher. CONTACT: 866-812-6518 or https://t.co/qcX9yJoT69 . Full recall notice: https://t.co/opDScuLjFk
— US Consumer Product Safety Commission (@USCPSC) April 12, 2019
The recall comes in the wake of tragedy; at least 30 infant deaths have occurred in the sleepers since 2009, and countless other injuries have occurred.
The official hazard report on the CPSC recall states, “Infant fatalities have occurred in Rock n’ Play Sleepers, after the infants rolled from their back to their stomach or side while unrestrained, or under other circumstances.”
This recall comes as a shock to many, as the Rock n’ Play has been such a highly recommended baby item for expectant parents. Heck, I even have a Rock n’ Play sitting in my kitchen that my baby girl was just napping in THIS MORNING. It gives me chills to think about the countless babies (including my own) who have unwittingly been put in harm’s way.
Let this recall be an important reminder to us all that just because a product is marketed and sold for babies, does NOT mean it is safe to use. It’s up to us as parents to be vigilantly aware of the safety/risks of every item we select for our precious little ones.
As a reminder, the American Academy of Pediatrics stresses that the safest way for babies to sleep is on a firm surface with nothing extra, like blankets, stuffed animals, pillows, etc., surrounding them. Furthermore, the AAP also advises against the use of any type of sitting device (such as a Rock n’ Play) for extended, unsupervised sleep.
Parents who own a Rock n’ Play are advised to stop use immediately and can also apply for a refund or a voucher by going to service.mattel.com and clicking on “Recalls & Safety Alerts” or calling 866-812-6518.