The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Nan Far Woodworking Co., Ltd. of Taiwan, have recalled 16,700 drop-side cribs due to safety hazards to children, including possible entrapment and suffocation. According to the CPSC, “The cribs' drop sides can malfunction, detach or otherwise fail, causing part of the drop side to fall out of position, creating a space into which an infant or toddler can roll and become wedged or entrapped, which can lead to strangulation or suffocation.” The CPSC and the companies involved are aware of five incidents when the drop sides malfunctioned or became detached from the crib and at least one report of a child experiencing injuries due to the drop side’s malfunction. When drop sides detach, children can also fall from the crib.
The drop-side cribs involved are known as the Rockland Furniture brand drop-side cribs. The cribs were imported from Taiwan and sold exclusively by J.C. Penney throughout the U.S. from 2005 to 2008 at prices ranging from $150 to $400.
In order to identify the recalled cribs, consumers can locate the brand name “Rockland Furniture” and the model number on a label on the headboard panel. The drop-side cribs are made from wood and use plastic hardware to attach the drop side. The particular models involved in this recall are:
343-8124 Nightingale Spindle Drop-Side Crib
343-8280 Cottage Standard Drop-Side Crib Version 1
343-8271 Cottage Standard Drop-Side Crib Version 2
343-9105 Drop-Side Crib and Changer
343-8191 Renew Standard Drop-Side Crib
343-8192 Renew Convertible Drop-Side Crib
Consumers are advised to immediately stop using these drop-side cribs and provide an alternate safer sleeping arrangement for their child. (The CPSC suggests “a bassinet, play yard or toddler bed, depending on the age of the child.”) Consumers may contact the company to obtain a free repair kit to immobilize the drop side. Nan Far Woodworking Company can be reached by calling 1(877) 967-5770 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday, or by visiting the firm's website at: www.rocklandimmobilizationkit.com
The CPSC also warns parents not to use a crib with any missing, loose or broken parts. Crib hardware should be tightened periodically as required to keep the crib sturdy. If parents use a drop-side crib for their child, they should make sure the drop side and any other moving part operate properly. All sides and corners of the crib should be checked for any parts which could separate and create a gap, thus entrapping a child.
Consumers may view photos of these recalled cribs by visiting the CPSC website:
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