Two Strangulation Deaths Prompt Summer Infant to Recall Video Baby Monitors with Cords; Firm to Provide New On-Product Label & Instructions

What's being recalled

The recall involves Summer Infant video baby monitors with electrical cords distributed between January 2003 and February 2011. The baby monitors were sold in more than 40 different models, including handheld, digital, and color video monitors. All video monitors include both the camera (placed in the baby's room) and the hand held device (some models have two hand-held devices) that enable the caregiver to see and/or hear the baby from a specific distance. The brand "Summer" is found on the product.

The problem, in CPSC's words

The cords can present a strangulation hazard to infants and toddlers if placed too close to a crib. Because of this serious strangulation risk, parents and caregivers should never place these and other corded cameras within three feet of a crib.

Incidents and injuries reported to CPSC

CPSC and the firm have received reports of two strangulation deaths of infants. In March 2010, a 10-month old girl from Washington, D.C. strangled in the electrical cord of a monitor camera placed on the crib rail. In November 2010, a six-month old boy from Conway, S.C. strangled in the electrical cord of a monitor camera placed on a changing table attached to the crib. A 20-month old boy from Pittsburg, Pa. was found with the camera cord around his neck, but was freed without serious injury.

What CPSC says to do

CPSC and Summer Infant urge parents to immediately check the location of the video monitors, including cameras mounted on the wall, and all electric cords to make sure the cords are out of arm's reach of their child and contact Summer Infant to receive a new permanent electric cord warning label about the strangulation risk and revised instructions about how to safely mount the camera, keeping cords out of the child's reach.

How to contact the company

Summer Infant toll-free at (800) 426-8627 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm's website at www.summerinfant.com/Home/Product-Recall.aspx

Open the official CPSC notice