CPSC, Swimways Corp. Announce Recall of Swim Trainers
CPSC recall 03179 · announced September 10, 2003 · Swimways · 3,400 units affected
The product
The recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer is a red-and-yellow-colored fabric crab with eight stuffed legs and two eyes covering a styrofoam buoyancy float. Black straps are attached to the side seams to fasten around a child. Printed on the underside of the crab float are the words, "Swim Ways" and "CAUTION: This is not a lifesaving device. Do not leave child unattended while in use."
The hazard
The nylon body strap on the swim trainer can detach or tear from the flotation device and release a child into water, posing a serious drowning hazard to young children.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should stop using the swim trainers immediately and return them to the company for a full refund. Swimways will provide consumers with a self-addressed envelope to return the product.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): There have been seven reports of the body straps detaching and two reports of the seams splitting, though no injuries have been reported.
Sold at: Specialty pool and toy stores nationwide and Internet retailers sold the flotation devices, from January 2003 through July 2003, for about $12.
Consumer contact: Consumers should contact Swimways at (800) 889-7946 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the company's website at www.swimways.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.