Recall: Chicco Crib Toy Recalled by Artsana of America

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 13, 1988
Release # 88-048

Potential Strangulation Hazard Prompts Recall of Chicco Crib Toy

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Some 136,000 Chicco-brand "Pram Mobiles" imported in 1987 and 1988 from Italy by Artsana of America, Inc., New York, N.Y., are being voluntarily recalled because of a potential strangulation hazard to infants. The majority of the toys were sold in Toys R Us Stores. Artsana said the crib toy retailed for $5-6 and consists of four pastel-colored, hard plastic bird and flower figures separated by three small balls. Two white cords at opposite ends allow the toy to be tied on a crib, carriage, playpen or stroller.

While no strangulations or injuries have been reported, Artsana is undertaking this voluntary recall because consumers who read the package instructions may leave the toy in the crib longer than is considered safe.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Chicco "Pram Mobile II does not warn consumers that the toy should be removed when the child begins to push up on hands and knees, or has attained the age of five months. CPSC said five- month-old infants can pull themselves up to a hanging crib toy and become entangled or fall forward over it, possibly strangling. The toy contains no warning about when to remove it from a crib; moreover, the package recommends its use from birth to 18 months of age.

Artsana said the Chicco crib toy is identified as item number 62926 on the package. Once removed from the package, the toy can be identified with words "Made in Italy" stamped on each of the plastic balls.

Consumers who have the Chicco "Pram Mobile" should return it to the retail store for a refund of the purchase price, or send the toy to Artsana of America, Inc. 200 Fifth Avenue, #910, New York, N.Y. 10010. The firm will refund the purchase price and postage.