| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | |
| September 10, 1987 | |
| Release # 87-048 |
Stuffed Animal Mobiles Recalled Because Of Strangulation Hazard - Recent Death Cited
WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Calderon Company, Inc., Locust Valley, New York, is recalling its large stuffed animal mobiles. When hung within the reach of an infant, a 26-inch nylon cord poses the potential for entanglement and strangulation.The Commission and the firm are aware of the September 1986 fatal strangulation accident of a 15-month-old Pennsylvania boy. The boy became entangled in the nylon cord attached to the wings of a "Toucan" model which was hung over a crib and post. A label sewn into the mobile, warning against use by children under three, had been removed after purchase.
Other models of the colorful, soft, stuffed animal mobiles include giraffes, pelicans, elephants, ducks, and penguins. The recalled mobiles may be identified by a cloth label sewn into the stuffed toy. It bears the words "CALDERON CO, INC., CONTENTS: ALL NEW MATERIAL, PLUSH AND FILLING (FILLING: POLYSTER FIBER & PLASTIC PELLERS) NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER 3 YEARS OF AGE) MADE IN TAIWAN . " A nylon cord about 26 inches long attaches to one wing, arm, or ear, passes through a white ring connecting two springs, and then attaches to the other wing, arm, or ear (see attached sketch). This allows the wings, arms, or ears to flap as the animal bounces up and down. It also makes a squeaking noise as it bounces or is handles.
Approximately 16,000 of these mobiles were imported from Taiwan and sold nationwide since 1979. The large stuffed mobiles retail for about $10.00. Consumers should take the mobiles away from children and cut the 26-inch nylon cord and springs. Send the detached cord and sprints to: Calderon Co., Inc., 480 Forest Avenue, Locust Valley , NY 11560. Calderon will send you a free plush toy in return.
To report an unsafe consumer product or receive safety information, consumers may call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-G38-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is 800-6X-8270.
