Drop-side cribs recalled for entrapment and choking hazards

Consumer Reports News: November 03, 2011 11:08 AM

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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Dutailier Group, of Quebec, Canada have announced the recall of about 440 drop-side baby cribs. The slats on the cribs can detach and create a space that could trap a baby's head and strangle the child or cause the child to fall out of the crib.

According to the CPSC, the Dutailier Group is aware of 16 reports in which the slats on the drop side became detached from the top or bottom of the drop side rails of a crib. While no injuries have been reported, the CPSC continues to warn of the dangers of drop-side cribs. And we've previously reported, tougher crib safety standards enacted by the CPSC that have now banned the sale of any new drop-side cribs. (See Consumer Reports Baby crib buying advice for more information on how to choose a safe crib.)

This current recall involves full-size, drop-side wooden cribs sold at children's products stores and other baby specialty stores from January 2009 through February 2010, for between $425 and $775. The faulty cribs have part numbers that begin with E1230C2, E3500C2, E3540C2, E5100C2, E5140C2, E5530C2, E9000C2 and E9100C2. The Dutailier logo and the part number can be found on labels on the inside of the end panels.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled cribs and contact Dutailier Group to receive a free repair kit, which consists of a new fixed side to replace the drop side of the crib.

In the meantime, parents are urged to find an alternate, safe sleeping environment for a child, such as a bassinet, play yard or toddler bed, depending on the child's age.

For additional information, consumers can call Dutailier Group at 800-363-9817.

Dutailier Group Recalls Drop-Side Cribs Due to Entrapment and Fall Hazards [CPSC]

—Paul Eng