Recall: Infant and Toddler Hats Recalled by Elegant Headwear

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 14, 1999 Release # 99-049

Company Phone Number: (800) 689-9237 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Nychelle Fleming, (301) 504-7063

CPSC, Elegant Headwear Co. Announce Recall to Repair Infant and Toddler Hats

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Elegant Headwear Co., of Elizabeth, N.J., is notifying consumers that 150,000 infant and toddler hats need to be repaired. The hats have a one-piece chin strap. These one-piece chin straps can lead to strangulation if they get caught on playground equipment, riding toys or other catch points.

CPSC and Elegant Headwear Co. are not aware of any injuries associated with these hats. This notice is being issued to prevent the possibility of injury.

The infant and toddler hats are knit. They are available in a variety of colors and styles. An inside tag reads in part, "100 percent Acrylic...Made in U.S.A....RN 36299 or RN 82864."

Mass merchandisers and discount stores sold the infant and toddler hats from 1985 through 1998 for about $2 to $4.

Consumers should cut the one-piece chin straps on the infant and toddler hats in half. Consumers should contact Elegant Headwear Company at (800) 689-9237 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. EST if they have any questions about how to eliminate the potential strangulation hazard.

CPSC reminds consumers never to place any type of cord around a child's neck. CPSC also reminds consumers to remove drawstrings from the hoods and necks of children's clothing and to purchase children's outerwear that has alternative closures, such as snaps, buttons, Velcro or elastic.

Elegant Headwear Co. has eliminated the one-piece chin straps from its line of infant and toddler hats.