670,000 window blinds recalled from Ikea after strangulation of child

Additional recall of 7,300 roller shades after near-strangulation; available from multiple retailers

It's hard to comprehend how something as seemingly innocent as window treatments can be so deadly to children. But two recalls announced today remind us that they are. 

The larger of the two involves 670,000 Iris and Alvine Roman blinds sold in the U.S. (and another 4.8 million sold outside the U.S.) by Ikea. In April, a one-year-old girl strangled to death when she became entangled in the inner cord of one of these blinds. 

They came in white, and were sold in a range of sizes at Ikea stores nationwide from July 2005 through June 2008. They have a sewn-in label on the top edge that says "Ikea" and either "Iris" or "Alvine," as well as the number 19799 or 21369. Return these immediately to Ikea for a full refund. You can call the company at (888) 966-4532 for more information, or log on to www.ikea-usa.com. 

The second recall involves 7,300 black-out roller shades and insulated Roman shades made by Green Mountain Vista. The shades come with a looped bead chain that, if not attached to the wall or floor, hangs loosely. In June, a two-year-old girl nearly strangled to death when she put the looped chain around her neck and then slipped off the radiator where she was standing. Her five-year-old brother rescued her. She suffered deep neck bruising. 

The roller shades and Roman shades were sold nationwide from June 2005 through September 2008 at Country Curtains, Plow & Hearth, The Linen Source, Sturbridge Yankee Workshop, Ann & Hope, The Sportsman's Guide, Target.com, The Curtain Shop of Maine, and Solutions Catalog. The range of sizes and colors is listed here. The shades have the number 107875 printed on the care label. 

This product came with a tension device that secures loose cords to the wall or window frame. If you didn't install that when you put up the blinds, you can get a free replacement by calling (800) 639-1728 or sending an email to office @gmvista.com. 

With the holidays upon us, undecorating is the last thing anyone wants to do, but taking down dangerous blinds could save a life. If you have any shades or blinds in your home, check that cords are safely out of the reach of children. The CPSC has information here (PDF) and the Window Covering Safety Council has more here. 

Remember, too, that where you place a crib or playpen factors into its safety. Consumer Reports has tips for safe use and placement here.

—Marc Perton