Another toy, manufactured in China - a doll stroller - has been recalled due to reported cuts and laceration injuries suffered by children.
Lan Enterprises has issued a recall of their doll stroller manufactured from 2005 – 2007 that goes under the name Mini Zooper Doll Stroller, and is sold exclusively by Pottery Barn.
In the most recent recall of a child’s toy manufactured in China, three separate incidents of serious lacerations have been reported, one severe enough that a toddler suffered a partially-severed finger. The Stroller is identifiable by the words, “Pottery Barn Kids” printed on a label on the seat cover.
This latest recall of a toy manufactured in China follows a rash of problems parents have had to face with former products.
Other Recent Recalls
In August, popular toy-maker, Mattel, recalled over a million Sesame Street toys due to lead-based paint issues, in what has been an on-going discovery of lead in numerous items it manufacturers. In addition to the poisoning concerns, the toy giant recalled million of magnet-related toys due to chocking hazards..
Lead-based Paint
Numerous recalls for lead-based paint problems increased in September; parents should check for the following:
- Happy Giddy Gardening Tools and Children's Sunny Patch Chairs from Target.
- Toy Rakes from Jo-Ann Stores.
- Floor Puppet Theaters under the name of “Guidecraft”.
- Knights of Sword (series) toys from RC2.
- Toy Jewelry from Rhode Island Novelty.
- Toy Jewelry from “Toby and Me” child sets.
- Toy Train Sets from RC2
Parents who have any of these items should remove them from their child’s play area and contact the store where they were purchased or the manufacturer for further instructions. Refunds may be available.
Is enough being done to protect children?
Studies have shown that lead poisoning; especially in children, can lead to brain damage and other health problems. Mattel has been on the hot seat as consumers questioned whether or not they informed the public as soon as they could have when the first evidence of lead contamination was known. Regulations state that manufacturers must report all hazards within 24 hours. Robert Eckert, of the US Product Safety Commission told the Wall Street Journal “…the company discloses problems on its own timetable because it believes both the law and the commission's enforcement practices are unreasonable.”.
Mattel has countered by claiming that it needs to research the danger internally before alerting the public.
At any rate, parents should be aware of the toys their children are playing with and if they have any concerns the toy should be removed until it can be ascertained that it is safe. Just because the label says it was made in China doesn’t mean it’s dangerous, but since so many toys have been recalled lately parents need to be vigilant about the playthings their children are using.
Away from Home
Parents, armed with at list of recall-affected toys, should take the time to talk with their child’s care-giver and homes where their child plays with friends to see if any of the listed items are being used.
