Growing Up Green Contest Winner

Congratuations to Marcy - who finally took the plunge and wrote a comment on my post about the book Growing Up Green. She's looking forward to reading the book and I'm sending my review copy right out to her! Thank you for participating in my first contest! I'm happy to reward my readers!

Baby Carrier Recall

I find the photo of this recalled baby carrier to be quite ironic, don't you? I don't think I'd be smiling with my coffee if my baby was ready to go plunk to the floor due to the failure of this product! Please check for other recalled children's and baby products at www.CPSC.gov.

Beco Baby Butterfly Carriers
Units: About 2,000
Made by Beco Baby Carrier Inc., of Newport Beach, Calif.

The buckles on the carrier shoulder straps can unexpectedly release tension, causing the strap to slip through, posing a fall hazard to the baby.
Incidents/Injuries: Beco has received eight reports of the carrier straps slipping through the shoulder buckles. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recalled infant carriers were sold under brand name “Beco Baby Carrier Butterfly.” The carriers have a black label with a green “b” logo on the left side and a butterfly on the right side. The label is sewn on the outside of the carrier. The following carrier styles are included in the recall: Mia, Pony Express, Carnival, Addison, Ethan, Sophia, Cameron, Ava and Joshua.

Sold at: Specialty retail stores nationwide and internet sites from January 2008 through February 2008 for about $140.
Manufactured in: USA and Dominican Republic

Consumers should immediately stop using the carriers and contact Beco Baby Carrier to receive instructions for returning the carriers for repair. Contact Beco Baby Carrier Inc. toll-free at (888) 943-8232/9-GET-BECO between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.becobabycarrier.com

Keep Kids Safe at the Playground

More on summer safety! Playground accidents are the leading cause of injury to children in elementary school. Each year, in the United States, approximately 150,000 children ages five to 14 go to the emergency room with accidental injuries involving playground equipment -- and three out of four playground accidents occur on public playgrounds, including school facilities, as opposed to backyard play equipment.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the ground should be covered 12 inches deep with shredded rubber, hardwood fiber mulch or fine sand, extending at least six feet in all directions around the equipment. This lessens the chances that severe injury occurs WHEN a child falls. I say when, because they will fall. Medical experts say that I child who falls more than 10 feet risks spinal cord injury, paralysis and/or death. These guidelines apply to all types of playgrounds, home, school and parks. So check out your own areas for safety.

Also, I've posted plenty of recalls for clothing with drawstrings on this blog. About ten children per year die from injuries involving playground equipment, mostly from strangulation when a piece of loose clothing or jewelry gets caught on equipment or the child's head gets stuck between climbing bars. Parents should be vigilant. For outdoor play, children's clothing and outerwear should be free of drawstrings and should fit snugly to minimize the risk of getting stuck in a piece of equipment. Do not allow kids to wear helmets, necklaces, purses or scarves on the playground or engage in any pushing, shoving or crowding around playground equipment.

The CPSC Playground Guidelines Handbook is available by calling 800.638.2772. At school, you might want to take a look at the school playground and, if necessary, discuss the CPSC guidelines with school officials.

Water Safety for Children

Swim season will be beginning soon. It's actually already started in Florida. I have signed my kids up for another round of swimming lessons starting next month. We don't have a pool, so they don't always get to stay up to date with their swimming skills.

Here are some water safey tips to keep in mind to keep your kids safe during swimming season.

• Never take your eyes off your children while they are swimming, even for a moment. Consider using a buddy system for the children as well.


• If you're in a group, take turns with other adults being the designated "water watcher" to keep eyes on the children.


• While supervising, avoid distractions, like phone use and/or reading or talking.


• Maintain visual contact with the children and the water.


• Teach children to swim beginning at age four.


• Don't rely on water wings or other inflatables.


• If your child can't swim, stay within arm's reach at all times.


• Use only U. S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices.


• Tell children to stay away from drains and tie up long hair to prevent entanglement.


• Keep gates to pool areas latched.


• Look for life-saving equipment at the pool.


• Learn infant and child CPR. Contact your local Red Cross for local classes.


• Make sure children stay within designated swimming areas in the ocean, lakes, and rivers.


• Never allow diving in water less than nine feet deep.


• Never leave children alone in the bathtub.


• With younger children, keep toilet lids down, and doors to laundry and bathrooms closed.

Keeping Kids Safe This Summer

Before you know it, the kids will be out of school and looking for things to do. You'll be wanting to keep them safe from the hazards that free time and heat can bring!

Here are some tips for keeping your children safe during summertime and Spring Break!





My Kids Ride Safe

• Infants ride in rear-facing car seats as long as possible, but until at least one year of age and 20 pounds.


• Children at least one year old and between 20-40 pounds are secured in a forward-facing car seat.


• Children over 40 pounds ride in a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt.


• Children who weigh 80 pounds and 4 feet 9 inches tall may use an adult lap and shoulder belt.


• Before getting in my vehicle and starting the motor, I always walk all the way around it to check for children.


• I never leave my child alone in a car

My Kids Swim Safe

• I maintain visual contact with my kids when they are playing in or near the water.


• Install fencing around all sides of a home pool or spa. The fencing should be five feet high and have self-closing, self-latching gates.


• My children wear life jackets when on a boat, near open bodies of water or when playing water sports, and I make sure the life jackets fit properly.


• After their fourth birthday, my kids take swim lessons

My Kids Play Safe

• I always supervise my children on playground equipment.
  
• Safe playgrounds have 12 inches of shredded rubber, hardwood fiber mulch or sand beneath the equipment.


• I don’t dress children in loose clothing, clothes with drawstrings or necklaces when they play on the playground.


• When practicing or playing team sports, my children wear the right protective gear.

My Kids Wheel Safe

• I make sure my child wears a helmet and other protective gear when riding bikes, skates or scooters.


• The helmet fits snugly and does not rock back and forth. It should be centered on the head, strapped and buckled.The bike fits my child and is in good working order.


• I teach my child the rules of the road and to obey traffic rules.


• Children under 10 should only wheel on sidewalks, paths or other designated areas.

My Kids Walk Safe

• My children under 10 cross the street with an adult.


• Teach children to cross streets at the corner, to use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.


• Instruct children to look left, right and left again before crossing the street and to keep looking as they cross.


• Remind children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing.


• I dress my kids in clothing with reflective materials and give them a flashlight when it’s dark.

Magnet Toy Recalls Today

Today there are several new toy recalls. I have been somewhat lax in my recall reporting due to our pending move. But I am rectifying this today and am reporting all the toy recalls since my last update, starting with these. I will be reporting the balance of them shortly. Remember you can find child-related recalls by looking at my category list to the right under Toy Recall or Child Safety.

Play Wonder Toy Sundae Sets/Target
Units: About 22,000, Distributor: Battat Inc., of Plattsburgh, N.Y.

The wooden cherries on top of the toy sundae pose a choking hazard to young children. Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled wooden sundae set toy includes six woodenscoops of ice cream, three cherries that attach to the top of the ice cream scoops, banana slices, a spoon and bowl. The ice cream scoops are green, pink, brown, yellow and purple. The sundae set pieces attach to each other with Velcro. Model number DPCI-204-12-0526 is included in this recall and is located on the packaging.

Sold exclusively at: Target Stores nationwide from December 2006 through December 2007 for about $10. Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled toy sundae setsaway from children and return the toys to any Target store for a fullrefund.Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Battat Inc. at(800) 247-6144 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET or visit the firm'sWeb site at http://www.battatco.com/

Battat Magnabild Magnetic Building Toys or Sets
Units: About 7,000 (125,000 other Battat Magnabild Building Systems wererecalled on January 23, 2008) Distributor: Battat Inc., of Plattsburgh, N.Y.

Small magnets inside the building pieces can fall out. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: CPSC and Battat have received 16 reports of magnets coming out of the building pieces. No injuries have been reported. No incidents have been reported with models BB1439 and BAT-34.

This recall involves the 108-piece (item number BB1439H)and the 68-piece (item number BAT-34) Magnabild Magnetic Building Systemsets. The 108-piece set comes in a rotating display case containingsixty 1-inch rods with magnets and 48 metal balls. The 68-piece set comes in a window box and contains forty-four 1-inch rods with magnets and 24 metal balls. The rods come in different colors. All of the plastic building pieces have the word "Magnabild" in raised lettering onthem. "BB1439H" is found on a hang tag attached to the display case."BAT-34" is found on the box. The products are designed for children older than three years.

Sold at: Various retailers nationwide and online sellers from July 2005through February 2008 for between $20 and $35.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled Magnabild Magnetic Building System away from children and contact Battat to receive a pre-paid mailer to return the toy and to receive a free replacement product.Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Battat Inc. at(800) 247-6144 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET or visit the firm'sWeb site at http://www.battatco.com/

Flu Vaccine Recommended for All Children

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices said all children should get the flu vaccine as soon as possible, acknowledging that many doctors have already ordered their vaccine for the 2008-2009 season and may not be able to give the shots until 2009-2010. The flu season generally starts in the fall and continues through spring. Currently, only children under five and those with chronic health issues are advised to get the flu vaccine.

My children have always had those health issues that qualified them to get the dreaded shot annually. They both have asthma. But since they said recently that this year's vaccine didn't work very well, we are on high alert, since the flu is spreading here in Florida. I am one of those people who do believe that vaccines help more than they might hurt. So many terrible illnesses are completely prevented by keeping up with the childhood vaccines. I will continue to take the whole family for the annual flu shot, after all we like the free lollipops!

Toy Recalls Again - Cinderella and Spiderman

More toy recalls came out this week. These include popular items with Cinderella and Spiderman motifs that every child seems to love. So take a look through the kitchen and the toys for these.

Cinderella 12-Volt Electric Ride-On Vehicles by Dumar/Walmart
Units: About 64,000
Manufacturer: Dumar International USA, of Franklin, Mass.

The wires under the hood of the car and/or in the battery compartment under the seat can short circuit, posing a fire and burn hazard to children riding in the car.

The firm and CPSC are aware of 40 incidents of the toy car’s wires overheating. In several incidents, smoke was seen coming out from underneath the seat area where the battery is located. In one incident, flames shot from under the hood while a 4-year-old girl was riding the vehicle. No injuries have been reported.

The electric ride-on toy resembles the Pontiac Solstice. It is light blue and has Cinderella graphics on the front and sides. The wheels, steering wheel and two seats are pink. The white dashboard may contain an optional radio. “Pontiac Solstice” is printed on the back of the car. “Walt Disney’s Cinderella Special Edition” is printed on the license plate. It is designed for children 4 to 7 years old.

Sold at: Wal-Mart stores nationwide from August 2005 through February 2006 for about $200.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled toy cars away from children and contact Dumar International for a free retrofit kit, including a new battery. For additional information, contact Dumar International at (866) 424-0500 between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.dumarusa.com/


Spiderman® Water Bottles/Sears
Units: About 6,600

Manufacturer: Fast Forward LLC, of New York, N.Y.

Screws under the bottle’s lid can come loose and fall into the cup, posing a choking hazard to children.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports of screws coming loose under the water bottle’s lid. No injuries have been reported.

The recalled plastic water bottles have a Spiderman® picture on the cup and a Spiderman® figure on the screw-on lid. The water bottle is red, white, blue, and black and measures nine inches high.

Sold exclusively at: Sears stores nationwide from July 2007 through August 2007 for about $10.

Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled water bottles away from children and contact Fast Forward LLC for instructions on returning the water bottles for a full refund. For additional information, contact company toll-free at (877) 244-4433 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

Storms Create Deja Vu

We just had a bad line of squall storms pass through here. Very short and with lots of rain. And with a big crack of lightning. Nothing unusual here in Florida, except this time the next door neighbor now has a gaping hole in the roof of the house and no phone line and my daughter is a victim of lightning shock.

She was stirring a pot of soup when the lightning hit next door. The shock traveled in our wiring and into her arm through the stove, much like when it happened to me twenty some odd years ago in the same house (see the chicken patty incident). She seems to be okay though, but I'll be watching her for a bit.

This should be a cautionary tale! Do not use the stove during thunderstorms! I didn't know she was stirring soup, but Grandma was cooking! And lightning does strike the same place twice!

Preventing Identity Theft

Losing your wallet or purse really bites! We've spent the last month trying to make sure that we won't become victims, since Tim lost his wallet at a convenience store. He thinks he dropped it in a trash can by mistake, but we don't know for sure. When the wallet went missing, we lost tons of valuable working and personal time trying to make sure we contacted all the creditors, banks and credit bureaus. We hope we got them all. So far so good. We weren't enrolled with a service to help us with all this and save us time. A protection service run by life lock can take care of all this for a very nominal fee. They do all the work for you if you lose any valuable personal or credit information - contacting the necessary bureaus and creditors. They guarantee their services against identity theft for up to one million dollars! That's impressive. And a great way to help keep your family safe, as they also offer the service for your children's credit bureau accounts. I hadn't thought of this and think that this is really a great idea! They say that thieves are targeting kids' credit information because people don't usually keep tabs on it.

Toy Helicopters Recalled

This is the newest toy recalled in February 2008. Parents, take another swing through the toys in your toychest today! This might have been a gift your child received. We must be extra vigilant to help our children stay safer these days! As always, please visit http://www.cpsc.gov/ for information on all recalls.

Remote-Controlled Helicopter Toys/Soft Air Fun2Fly Microcopter
Units: About 30,000
Importer: Soft Air USA Inc., of Grapevine, Texas
The rechargeable battery contained inside the helicopter can catch fire during charging, igniting the helicopter and nearby combustible materials. This poses a burn or fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Soft Air USA has received six reports of helicopters igniting, including one minor injury.

This recall involves the remote-controlled helicopter toy “Fun2Fly Microcopter” with item number 91001. The helicopter comes with a transmitter that controls and recharges the helicopter. The helicopter is made of foam and plastic and measures about 6 ½ inches by 2 ½ inches. The transmitter measures about 4 1/2 inches by 5 inches. “Fun2Fly” and “Microcopter” are printed on the packaging. The item number is printed above the UPC label.
Sold at: Sporting goods stores and other retailers nationwide from May 2007 through December 2007 for about $30.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled toy helicopter and return it to the retailer where it was purchased for a full refund. Call Soft Air USA collect at (817) 210-4181 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or e-mail the company at Bhook@softairusa.com

Recalled Children's Products - February 2008

Here are the latest children's product recalls through February 10, 2008. Please see www.cpsc.gov for more details on every recall and more photos.

eeBoo Sketchbooks with Colored Spirals
About 80,000, Distributor: eeBoo Corp., of New York, N.Y.
The paint on the sketchbooks’ colored spiral metal bindings contains excessive levels of lead violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled children’s sketchbooks have colored spiral metal bindings, drawing paper, and cardboard covers in the following styles. “eeBoo” and the style name are printed on a sticker on the back cover.

Drawing Birds (yellow spiral) -8 ½” x 11 ½”
“eeBoo Great Illustrators Sketchbook” is printed on front cover
Butterflies (yellow spiral) -8 ½” x 11 ½”
“eeBoo Great Illustrators Sketchbook” is printed on front cover,Garden Party (green spiral) -
8 ½” x 11 ½”
“eeBoo Great Illustrators Sketchbook” is printed on front cover, Up in the Tree (green spiral) -
8 ½” x 11 ½”
“eeBoo Great Illustrators Sketchbook” is printed on front cover, Nemo with Princess in Balloon (red spiral) -8 ½” x 11 ½”
“Sketchbook” is printed on front cover, Nature (yellow spiral) -8 ½” x 11 ½”
“eeBoo Great Illustrators Sketchbook” is printed on front cover, Princess and Butterflies (yellow spiral) - 8 ½” x 11 ½”
“Sketchbook” is printed on front cover, Princess and Butterflies (yellow spiral) - 10” x 14”
Other styles of sketchbooks with colored or plain metal spiral bindings are not included in this recall.
Sold at: Specialty and gift stores nationwide from September 2005 through January 2008 for about $6.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled sketchbooks away from children and contact eeBoo Corp. to receive a free replacement sketchbook with a plain metal spiral.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact eeBoo Corp. at (800) 791-5619 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.eeboo.com/safety.php

Toy Gardening Hand Rakes
Units: About 400
Distributor: Downeast Concepts Inc., of Yarmouth, Maine
Manufacturer: Zhongshan Foods, of China
The paint on the gardening tool hand rake contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal standard on lead in paint on toys.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled toy gardening tool hand rake has a wooden handle and a metal yellow bottom. “Backyard and beyond Garden Tools” is printed on the toy’s tag which hangs from the toy’s handle.
Sold at: Various home improvement and toy stores nationwide from June 2007 through November 2007 for about $2.50.
Manufactured in: China
Consumers should immediately take the recalled toy gardening rake away from children and return it to the store where purchased for a replacement toy hand rake. Contact Downeast Concepts toll-free at (800) 343-2424 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.backyard-beyond.com, or email the firm at productsafety@downeastconcepts.com

Bonafide Love Hooded Children’s Sweatshirts Nordstrom

Units: About 1,800

Manufacturer: Seventy Two Inc., of La Puente, Calif.

The garments have a drawstring through the hood, which can pose a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts. Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
This recall involves the Bonafide Love children’s hooded sweatshirts. The sweatshirts are reversible and come in two styles. The hearts and stars style is green and in the front has a heart surrounded by pink stars. On the reverse, it is hot pink with light pink dots. The Robots style is gray with drawings of robots and pink hearts. On the reverse, it has a zebra-like pattern with gray and black stripes. “Bonafide Love” is printed on a label sewn into the collar.

Sold exclusively at: Nordstrom retail stores nationwide from November 2007 through December 2007 for about $40.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard or return the sweatshirts to Nordstrom or to Seventy Two for a full refund. Contact Seventy Two Inc. collect at (626) 330-8027 ext. 170 between 9 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

Trek MT220 Girls Bicycles
Units: About 49,000
Importer: Trek Bicycle Corp., of Waterloo, Wis.
Hazard: The bicycle’s frame can break during use, causing the rider to lose control and suffer injuries.
Incidents/Injuries: Trek has received 13 reports of frames breaking, including four minor injuries.

This recall involves Trek girls’ bicycles model MT220 and model years 2005 (light metallic blue), 2006 (metallic silver and metallic purple or pink and pearl white), and 2007 (pink and white pearl or metallic purple). The model name is printed on the frame of the bicycle. Model year 2008 bicycles re not included in this recall.
Sold at: Authorized Trek dealers nationwide from April 2004 through June 2007 for about $300.
Manufactured in: China and Taiwan
Consumers should take the recalled bicycle away from children immediately and return it to a Trek dealer for a free replacement MT220 girl’s bicycle or a $100 discount on a different size Trek bicycle. Contact Trek at (800) 373-4594 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday and between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/support/safety_and_recalls

Transparent Toy Egg Shakers
Units: About 5,500
Manufacturer: West Music Company, of Coralville, Iowa
Hazard: The end cap can detach from the egg shaker and allow the small beads to spill out, posing choking/aspiration hazards to young children.
Incidents/Injuries: West Music has received a report of the end cap detaching. No injuries have been reported.

This recall involves clear, plastic egg-shaped instruments with various color beads inside. The beads inside the shaker instrument come in five colors: red, white, green, dark blue and aqua. “Basic Beat” and “Jumbo Egg Crystal” is printed on a label attached to the plastic bag packaging. Model numbers “BB5102” and “202212” are printed on the side of the label.
Sold at: West Music stores in Iowa and Illinois, West Music catalog, www.westmusic.com and at West Music exhibit booths nationwide from October 2006 through December 2007 for about $2. Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled egg shakers from young children and contact West Music for a free replacement product. Contact West Music at (800) 397-9378 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or e-mail the firm at rcousins@westmusic.com

Baby Product Warning for Phthalates in Shampoos and More

New studies have been published showing that common baby products could be a source of phthalate exposure for babies, possibly affecting their reproductive systems. Products such as baby shampoos, soaps and creams could be the culprits in raising blood levels and urine levels of phthlates. Of concern in the article, they say "Concerned parents can seek products labeled "phthalate-free," or check labels for common phthalates, including DEP and DEHP."

I have been using baby shampoos and now tear-free kid shampoos, well, ever since we have had children. I recently bought an organic Natural Biotin Shampoo by J/A/S/O/N that has worked well for me, ending my chronic dandruff (yuck) and post-shampoo itchiness. I am switching the kids over to it today and ended my penchant for purchasing Suave tear-free products. Now, I don't know if Suave has this chemical compound in it or not, but I am so happy with the organic product which is phthalate-free, that I will switch all of us to it.

The article referenced above mentions that phthalates might not even be on the ingredient list, as it is commonly found in the fragrances they add to the products (making that baby smell!) My changes for this start now and I encourage you to explore your options. I have written about phthalates in the past and you can find this information here and in the previous link, so check out what's going on with these products so you can make the best choices for your children.

***This is not a paid post or paid endorsement for any products mentioned here, I just like them.

Baby Einstein Crib Toy Recall, Marshalls Hooded Jacket Recall, Silver Baby Teether Recall and More

Here are the latest child and family-related recalls as announced recently by the Consumer Product Safety Commission or CPSC. Please be vigilant in taking care of your family with the items you bring into your home. Even if there are not recalls, pay attention to tiny and small items around small children and babies. Watch out for drawstrings in items that children wear, recalled or not. If something breaks, remove it from the play area.

Baby Einstein Baby Neptune™ Soothing Seascape Crib Toys
Units: About 15,000
Manufacturer: Kids II Inc., of Alpharetta, Ga.
The anchors that hold the straps to the back of the turtle can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.
Incidents/Injuries: Kids II has received 23 reports of anchors breaking. No injuries have been reported.

The Baby Einstein Baby Neptune Soothing Seascape crib toy is a plastic molded turtle with a toy aquarium body that has woven fabric straps that attach to the side rails of a crib. The toy turtle has a stuffed fabric head and feet. Model number 30858 is printed on the label on the leg of the turtle. Only crib toys manufactured in October 2007 with date code BJ7 printed on the back of the battery compartment, are included in the recall.
Sold at: Discount department stores and on-line retailers nationwide from November 2007 through January 2008 for between $25 and $30.Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled crib toys and contact Kids II to receive a free replacement toy. For additional information, contact Kids II toll-free at (866) 203-6788 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.kidsii.com/KIDSIISub19x35x1x0.aspx

Girls’ Hooded Jackets/Marshalls
Units: About 14,000
Distributor: AJBlue LLC, dba Apollo Jeans, of New York, N.Y.
The jackets have a drawstring through the hood which poses a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled velour jackets have a drawstring at the neck. The jackets are hooded, zip up the front, have a front pocket, and were sold with matching velour pants. The word “DIVA” with rhinestones is displayed across the front of the jackets. They were sold in children’s sizes small, medium, large, extra-large and 4, 5, 6, and 6X and came in red, blue and beige colors. “Apollo Active Wear” and either style number 5033gk or 5033gg are printed on the jackets’ neck tag.
Sold exclusively at: Marshalls Stores nationwide from August 2007 through November 2007 for about $15.
Manufactured in: Korea
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstring from the jacket’s hood to eliminate the hazard, or return it for a full refund to either the place of purchase or Apollo Jeans. For additional information, call Apollo Jeans collect at (212) 398-6585 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m ET Monday through Friday.

Heart and Car Sterling Silver Teethers by Elegant Baby
Units: About 200
Importer: Elegant Baby and Baby Needs Inc., of Burlington, N.C.
Manufacturer: Angel Ortiz and Fracionamiento Lomas De Taxco S/N, of Mexico
Hazard: The hearts and cars on the teethers can break off, posing a choking hazard to infants.

Incidents/Injuries: Elegant Baby has received one report of a baby mouthing the heart when it broke off the teether and became lodged in his mouth.
The sterling silver teethers are circle shaped with either a heart or car in the center. The teethers have beads inside. The teethers measure two inches in diameter.
Sold at: Independent infant clothing boutiques nationwide from February 2005 through September 2006 for about $50.
Manufactured in: Mexico

Consumers should immediately take the recalled teethers away from infants and contact the firm for instructions on returning the teethers for a full refund. For additional information, contact Elegant Baby at (800) 334-5321 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.elegantbaby.com/

Child Safety Recalls January 2008

Here are the lastest end of January 2008 (23rd through 31st) recalls for child and family products. More to come shortly and then, I will be posting the February recalls.

Toy Racing Cars/Dollar Stores
Units: About 2,000
Manufacturer: OKK Trading Inc., of Commerce, Calif.
Surface paint on the toy cars contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
This recall involves toy racing cars that are operated with a remote control. The toy racing car comes with four additional tires and one remote control. “Formula 1” is printed on the packaging. Manufactured in: China
Sold at: Retail dollar and discount stores nationwide from October 2007 through November 2007 for about $1.

Consumers should immediately take this car away from children and return it to the store where purchased for a refund. For additional information, contact the company toll-free at (877) 655-8697 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.okktrading.com/

Battat Magnabild Magnetic Building Systems
Units: About 125,000
Distributor: Battat Inc., of Plattsburgh, N.Y.
Small magnets inside the building pieces can fall out. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.
Incidents/Injuries: CPSC and Battat have received 16 reports of magnets coming out of the long flexible rods, 1-inch rods, and of the corners of square building pieces. No injuries have been reported.
This recall involves the 293-piece (item number BB1502H) and the 180-piece (item number BB1431H) Magnabild Magnetic Building System sets. Both sets come in rotating display cases that contain 1-inch and 4-inch rods with magnets, curved 1-inch rods, triangle and square pieces with magnets, square-shaped plastic building pieces, triangles and 5-sided pieces, and metal balls. The pieces come in different colors. All of the plastic building pieces, except the 4-inch flexible rods, have the word “Magnabild” in raised lettering on them. The item number is found on a hang tag attached to the set. The product is designed for children older than three years.
Manufactured in: China
Sold at: Various retailers nationwide and online sellers from 2005 through 2007 for between $30 and $40.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled Magnabild Magnetic Building System away from children and contact Battat to receive a pre-paid mailer to return the toy and to receive a free replacement product. For additional information, contact Battat at (800) 247-6144 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.battatco.com/

ESI-R Screening Materials/Blocks/Pearson Learning
Units: About 18,000
Importer: RR Donnelley, of Chicago, Ill.
Distributor: Pearson Learning Group, and Pearson Early Learning, of Upper Saddle River, N.J.
Surface paint on the green wooden blocks contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
The green wooden blocks are part of the ESI-R Screening Materials, educational materials used by schools to assess young children. The items include 10 green wooden blocks, a plastic yellow car, an 8-ft. white cloth ribbon, 10 black and white printed cards with shapes, a red rubber ball, and a blue plastic button.

Sold by: Pearson distributes to schools, examiners, and educators nationwide via sales representatives, catalogs, and the firm’s Web sites www.pearsonschool.com and www.pearsonlearning.com, from January 2003 through November 2007 for about $23. The materials are part of a larger ESI-R kit that sold for about $120.
Manufactured in: China

Purchasers should immediately stop using the blocks in the ESI-R Screening Materials. RR Donnelley will provide free replacement materials and instructions for returning the recalled product. RR Donnelley is directly contacting purchasers and posting information on its Web site.
Consumer Contact: : For additional information, contact RR Donnelley toll-free at (888) 988-2940 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.rrdonnelley.com/ESI-R-Recall



Big Wooden Blocks and Jumbo Wooden Train Sets - Christmas Tree Shop
Units: About 15,000
Retailer: Christmas Tree Shops, of South Yarmouth, Mass.
Manufacturer: First Learning Company Ltd., of Hong Kong
Surface paint on some pieces of the toys contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported. The Big Wooden Blocks contain 30 or 60 colorful block pieces in 11 geometric shapes. The Jumbo Wooden Train Sets contain 70 wooden pieces including trees, stop and railroad crossing signs, a red wooden engine and green train cars. The following style numbers and UPC numbers are printed on the packaging of the toys:
Big Wooden Learning Blocks – 30 pieces Style 7210, UPC 14559211
Big Wooden Learning Blocks – 60 pieces Style 7211, UPC 14559235
70 piece Jumbo Wooden Train Sets Style 13275A, UPC 14217340
Manufactured in: China
Sold at: Christmas Tree Shops located in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions from October 2006 through November 2007 for between $4 and $20.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and return the toys to any Christmas Tree Shop to receive a refund. For additional information, contact Christmas Tree Shops at (888) 287-3232 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.christmastreeshops.com/

Reading and Math Aids - School Use/SRA
Units: 185,000
Importer: RR Donnelley, of Chicago, Ill.
Retailers: SRA, of Columbus, Ohio, Glencoe, of Columbus, Ohio, and Wright Group, of Chicago, Ill.
Surface paint on the products contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
The following recalled reading and math aids are for use in the classroom. The item number is printed on the product’s packaging.
Reading Products
Photo Magnetic Dry-Erase Board - 007176266
The magnetic dry-erase boards have purple plastic frames. "SRA" logo is printed on the front of the boards. There are permanent squares imprinted on the face of each side of the board. Sold in a set of five. They measure 8 1/2" x 11".
Student Crown - 0026612887
The crowns are red, purple and gold with a thinking bubble in the middle. They were sold in packages of 12. The crown’s two ends close with Velcro to create a hat-like crown for students.
Puppet Thinking Crown - 0812603575
The crowns are red, purple and gold with a thinking bubble in the middle. The two ends close with Velcro to create a hat-like crown the teacher’s puppet wears. Includes a chin strap. The crown measures 16” long x 5” wide with a clear pocket on the front of the crown.
Angled Ruler - 002674452X
The clear plastic rulers are 12 inches long, bend in the middle, and have green imprints. Sold in packs of 10.
Magnetic Number Line - R00006029
The magnetic number lines are white, about 23 inches long, and are numbered from 1 to 25 on one side and 0 to 1 on the other side.
Target Mat -R85454.07 (Grade 1) R13159.15 (Grade 2)
The target mats are blue and white or blue, white and yellow with numbers. They measure 3’ x 3’.
Double Nine Dominos 0322090911
The double nine dominos contain 55 tiles. The tiles are white with dots of multiple colors.
Mimosa Measuring Tape 0322058333
The retractable white measuring tape has a florescent green casing. The tape is two sided in inches (red) and centimeters (black). “10M/33ft fiber glass measuring tape” is printed on the casing.
Two-Sided White Seamstress Flexible Tape Measure 36434R03 / RM004 / 0420024/ 0026744511
The two-sided flexible measuring tape has inches (60) on one side and centimeters (150) on the other side in black print with brass or silver stainless steel tips.

Sold by: SRA, Wright Group and Glencoe to schools nationwide from July 2003 through October 2007.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled products away from children and contact RR Donnelley for information on returning the products for a free replacement item. RR Donnelley is directly contacting schools that purchased the reading and math aids
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact RR Donnelley toll free at (888) 240-2730 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit http://www.mhcares.com/

Latest Toy Recalls January 2008

Today, there were several more hazardous toys and items recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Today's recalls and photos are listed below. Please be extra vigilant when using larger toys, like the Kenmore Play Stove, as tipping over is a major cause of deaths and injuries for children. There were other recalls today for a variety of candles, so for those details also go directly to the CPSC website.

“My First Kenmore” Play Stoves/Sears/Kmart
Retailers: Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Kmart Corp., of Hoffman Estates, Ill.
A metal bracket connecting the door to the stove can cause a tip-over when the door is opened. This poses a risk of injury to young children.
Incidents/Injuries: Sears has received one report of the product tipping over, resulting in bruises to a child.


The self-assembled, wooden play stove is painted pink with six white knobs and a timer. The dimensions of the stove when assembled are 11 1/2” W x 13 3/4” D x 32 7/8” H.
Sold at: Sears and Kmart stores nationwide from September 2007 through November 2007 for about $100.
Manufactured in: Taiwan

Consumers should immediately remove and discard the bracket that connects the door to the stove to eliminate the hazard. Consumers may obtain updated assembly instructions by contacting Sears/Kmart or by visiting either firm’s Web site. In some products, the updated assembly instructions are already included and replacement instructions are not required.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Sears/Kmart at (800) 659-7026 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit either http://www.sears.com/shc/s/nb_10153_12608_NB_CSrecalls?adCell=A3 or http://www.kmart.com/

Cranium Cadoo Board Games
Importer: Cranium Inc., of Seattle, Wash.

The surface paint on the die contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Only the die found in Cranium Cadoo board games with lot numbers 2007195 through 2007244 are included in the recall. The Cranium Cadoo game is packaged in a square cardboard box with an orange background. The seven digit lot number is printed under the plastic tray on the bottom half of the box.
Sold at: Fred Meyer, Kmart, Shopko, Wal-Mart and specialty game stores nationwide between October 2007 through January 2008 for about $20.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately dispose of the die and contact Cranium Inc. to receive a free replacement die. For additional information, contact Cranium Inc. at (877) 272- 6486 between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.cranium.com

Babies R Us Baby Frames Recalled

Today this recall was issued for baby frames. I hope this doesn't continue with the pace that is snowballing on the lead paint recalls. I am still waiting for them to recall all the Christmas present toys, now that they've made their money....scary! This frame could be in your baby's room now - take a look!

Hanging Photo Frames/Babies R Us
Importer: The Gift Wrap Co., of Atlanta, Ga.
Surface paint on the photo frames contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

This recall involves 4-inch by 6-inch hanging picture frames. The wooden frames are white with decorations in different colors, and with a coordinating ribbon attached to the top.
Sold at: Babies R Us stores nationwide from August 2007 through November 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately stop using this photo frame and contact The Gift Wrap Company for a full refund. For additional information, contact The Gift Wrap Company at (800) 443-4429, or visit the company’s Web site at http://www.giftwrapcompany.com/BRUposterrephoneframe.pdf

Recalls Start Up Again in 2008

I kind of took a vacation, sort of. Over the holidays, I didn't do much on the computer or the blog. And then, right after New Year's, I got sick. Actually I still am hacking a bit, but I'm back in the swing of it all. And so.......back to catching you up, Dear Readers, on the recalls that affect your family and child-related products out there. You may find additional photos and information at http://www.cpsc.gov/.

Toy Wrestler Figures/Dollar Stores
Manufacturer: A.A. of America Inc., of East Brunswick, N.J.
The surface paint contains high levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled toy is a package of four action figures. Each figure is about 5 3/4 inches high. The UPC number 604111230003 is printed on the product’s packaging.
Sold at: Dollar stores and discount stores nationwide from January 2007 through December 2007 for about $1.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should take the toy away from children immediately and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. For additional information, contact A.A. of America toll-free at (888) 822-8697 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, e-mail the firm at recalls@aatoys.com, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.aatoys.com/

Tinker Bell Lamps/Kash N' Gold/Lowes
Manufacturer: Kash N’ Gold Ltd., of Deer Park, N.Y.
The surface paint on the lamps contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled Tinker Bell lamp has model “Tinker Bell Lamp” printed on the bottom of the lamp. The lamp has a sculpted Tinker Bell in a flower garden with an animation of Tinker Bell swaying back and forth while music plays when the light switch or demo button is depressed.

Sold at: Electronic and appliance retailers nationwide, including Lowe’s from January 2007 through October 2007 for about $40.
Manufactured in: Hong Kong

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled lamps and return them to the store where purchased for a refund or contact the firm to receive a Kash N’ Gold merchandise credit. For additional information, visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.kngamerica.com/

“BabyTown” Pacifiers/Dollar Stores

Importer/Distributor: Shims Bargain Inc., of Los Angeles, Calif.

These pacifiers fail to meet federal safety standards for pacifiers. The pacifier shield is too small and could easily enter the mouth of an infant. Also, ventilation holes are too small and not placed to allow for the insertion of a tool to remove the pacifier when lodged in the mouth of a child. Finally, the package fails to display the required warning instructing consumers not to tie a pacifier around a child’s neck, which would present a strangulation hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled pacifiers were sold in a 4-pack of assorted colors. “BabyTown” and model #39864 are written on the product’s packaging.

Sold at: Dollar stores nationwide from March 2004 through December 2007 for $1.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should take these pacifiers away from children immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For additional information, contact Shims Bargain toll-free at (866) 540–3334 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.

Fish Coin Banks/Coastal Federal Credit Union NC
Distributor: TJ Promotions, of South El Monte, Calif.

Surface paint on the coin banks contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

This recall involves coin banks made of plaster that are shaped as a fish. The coin banks are orange with white stripes.
Distribution: The coin banks were provided as a free gift to Coastal Federal Credit Union members in North Carolina from February 2006 through September 2007.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should take the recalled coin bank away from children immediately and return it to where it was received for a free replacement as soon as one is available. For additional information, contact T J Promotions toll-free at (866) 742-2493 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.tjpromo.com

Please take a look at what you received over the holidays and assess them for safety.

Season's Recalls Part 2 - Lenox Warmers, Christmas Decorations and Christmas Themed Toys

Here are the most recent Christmas themed item recalls. I've included candles and decorative items, as well as any Christmas themed toy items.

Lenox Covered Warmer Dishes with Rack
Importer/Distributor: Lenox Group Inc., of Bristol, Pa.
Flames from the tea candle can extend up the sides of the dish. In addition, a label on the bottom of the dish causes excessive smoke when exposed to the flame. This poses fire and burn hazards to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received eight reports of flames extending up the sides of the dish and smoking. No injuries have been reported.

This recall involves covered ceramic warmer dishes with a rack and tea light candle. A label with “Lenox” and the SKU number is on the bottom of the warming dish. The following pattern/SKU warmer dishes are included in this recall.
Holiday - 782673, Winter Greetings - 782697, Holiday Gatherings - 782670, Orchard & Bloom -
783368, Butler’s Pantry - 783357, Butterfly Meadow - 783362

Sold at: Lenox and department stores nationwide from October 2007 through December 2007 for about $30.
Manufactured in: China (rack and tea light), Indonesia (ceramic dish)

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled warming dish with rack and tea light and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Lenox at (800) 635-3669 Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.lenox.com/recall

SMC Christmas Candle Sets
Distributor: Specialty Merchandise Corporation (SMC), of Simi Valley, Calif.
The snowman candle could tip over and the exterior coating on both candles can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

This recall involves the 2-pieced Snowman and Christmas tree candle set. The snowman candle measures 6 and ¼ inches high and the Christmas tree candle measures 7 inches high.
Sold through: SMC’s catalog from October 2003 through September 2007 for between $4 and $13.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should stop using the candles immediately and contact SMC to return the candle for a refund of the original purchase price.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact SMC at (888) 839-8757 or visit the company’s Web site at www.smcorp.com/recall

Jo-Ann Stores Children’s Robbie Ducky Holiday Water Globes
Importer: Jo-Ann Stores Inc., of Hudson, Ohio
The painted base of the water globes contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled Robbie Ducky water globe is about 1-1/2 inches in diameter and sits on a 1-1/2 by 1-1/2 inch square base. There are four different globe designs including: Robbie Ducky on a red base, a reindeer on a green base, a penguin on a green base and a polar bear on a red base. “Holiday Inspirations Water Globe” is printed on the bottom of the globes.

Sold exclusively at: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft stores in Florida, Texas, Missouri and Georgia in November 2007 for about $5.
Manufactured in: China

Consumers should immediately take the recalled globes away from children and return them to any Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft store for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Jo-Ann Stores toll-free at (888) 739-4120 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.joann.com or e-mail the firm at guest.services@jo-annstores.com

Season's Recalls - Toys, Kids Clothing, Bunk Beds and Baby Items Part 1 of 2

I'd say Seasons Greetings, but today, it's Seasons Recalls. I'm catching up on the recalls so you'll have all the current information available for recalls that potentially affect children or families. This is part one of two parts. Please see the next post for the balance of recent recalls. Please check http://www.cpsc.gov/ for photos and all details.


Super Magnets - Dollar Stores
Importer: Man’s Trading Company, of Brisbane, Calif.
The magnet attached to the bottom of a small toy panda can detach. If swallowed or aspirated by young children, the magnets can attract each other internally and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The ½-inch toys are shaped and painted to resemble panda bears. A small magnet is attached to the bottom of the toy. “Super Magnets” and the MTC logo are printed on the front of the packaging. The magnet toys are sold eight to a package.

Sold at: Dollar and gift stores nationwide from September 2005 through November 2007 for about $1.
Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take the recalled toy away from children immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact MTC at (800) 388-7228 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.


Empire Silver/Sterling Silver Teething Rings

Manufacturer: Empire Silver Company, of Brooklyn, N.Y.
The silver ball that holds the ring in place can separate and release the beads inside. This poses a choking and aspiration hazard to infants.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

The recalled sterling silver teething rings were sold in three styles: single ring with ball, single ring with heart and ball, and three rings with ball. The hollow ring has small beads inside that make a rattling sound and a ball soldered between the rings.

So