Consumer Recall: Graco Strollers Issues Recall Amid Fingertip Amputations

About 1.5 million Graco strollers sold at Wal-Mart, Target and other major retailers are being recalled after some children's fingertips were amputated by hinges on the products.



The recall by Graco Children's Products Inc. includes certain model numbers of its Passage, Alano and Spree Strollers and Travel Systems. The Exton, Pa., company received seven reports of children placing their fingers in a stroller's canopy hinge as the canopy was being opened or closed. Five children had their fingertips severed and two children received cuts on their fingertips.


"This is a serious hazard," said a representative of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. "Children can suffer fingertip amputations if they put their fingers in the hinge of the canopy as it opens and closes."


The strollers were made in China by Graco and sold at AAFES, Burlington Coat Factory, Babies R Us, Toys R Us, Kmart, Fred Meyer, Meijer, Navy Exchange, Sears, Target, Wal-Mart and other retailers nationwide from October 2004 to December 2009.


"I'll be sure to let my friends know," said one New Jersey resident. "I have friends that use Graco."


In announcing the recall Wednesday, the safety commission said the strollers pose an amputation and laceration hazard to children when opening or closing the canopy. The government advised consumers to stop using the strollers and contact Graco to receive a free repair kit.


The recall involves strollers made between October 2004 and February 2008. The model numbers and manufacture dates are on the lower inside portion of the rear frame, just above the rear wheels.


This is the second major recall in recent months of strollers that led to fingertip amputations and injuries. Last November, about a million Maclaren strollers were recalled after there were 12 reports of children's fingertips being amputated by a hinge mechanism.


The safety commission is now examining all strollers with the designs that have caused the fingertip amputations, said spokesman Scott Wolfson.


"CPSC is taking a larger look at the entire product line to determine what steps need to be taken to keep children safe in and around strollers," he said.


For more information about the recalled strollers, consumers can call 800-345-4109 or visit http://www.cpsc.gov.