According to a Consumer Reports study, nearly 32 infant deaths have been linked to Fisher-Price’s Rock ‘n Play Sleeper. The report prompted the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to demand a recall of the product because it is unsafe.
Safety Warning Issued
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), along with Fisher-Price, has issued a warning about the possible dangers of the product if used incorrectly. Along with the warning, the company acknowledged that at least 10 infants have died while using the sleeper; however, they did not go so far as to recall it from the market.
Fisher-Price has maintained that the product is safe so long as consumers follow the product’s warnings and instructions. It stated that the sleeper was never intended to be used by children over 3 months or who could roll over on their own. Additionally, the company emphasized that consumers should use the built-in harness restraint to keep babies safe while in the sleeper.
The Product’s Design Could Pose Health Risks
The Rock ‘n Play Sleeper was designed to provide a soothing motion that gently rocks babies to sleep. It is positioned at an incline and has deep walls that are supposed to keep the baby secure throughout the night.
The AAP stated that Fisher-Price’s warning is not enough to protect the safety of infants. The group said the product is dangerous because it does not meet AAP sleep environment recommendations. According to them, infants should lie on their backs on a flat surface unobstructed by bedding or padding. The sleeper’s seat-like design could cause airway obstruction if the infant rolls over and their head tilts toward the walls.
A Recall May Be Issued in the Future
The CPSC is continuing to investigate the Rock ‘n Play Sleeper. If findings indicate a high incidence of death, the agency may issue a recall.
Choose Biren Law Group for the Legal Counsel You Need
Several lawsuits have been brought against Fisher-Price, claiming the Rock ‘n Play Sleeper caused infant death. If you suffered a loss after using the product, contact our attorneys at Biren Law Group. Prematurely losing a child is devastating, especially when it could have been prevented. We’re here to help see that justice is served. Holding the responsible party financially liable for designing a dangerous product lets the company know their actions will not be tolerated, which could help prevent future harm.
Call us at (310) 896-4345 or contact us online for a free consultation.