Fisher-Price, a well-known manufacturer of toys for infants and children, has recently issued a recall for a specific toy included in its popular Baby Biceps Gift Set. The recall, announced on August 29, 2024, affects over 400,000 units in the United States and Canada. This action was taken due to a potential choking hazard associated with the dumbbell toy in the set. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the recall, including the reasons behind it, what products are affected, and what steps consumers should take.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Recall
The recall specifically targets the plastic dumbbell toy that is included in the Fisher-Price Baby Biceps Gift Set. This particular toy is designed with a gray bar and orange and red plastic weights on each end. The model number GJD49 is printed on the back of the kettlebell toy which is also included in the gift set.
The Choking Hazard
The primary reason for the recall is that the gray caps on the ends of the dumbbell can detach, creating a choking hazard for infants and young children. These small parts, if ingested, can lead to serious injury or even death.
Recall Details
The recall impacts approximately 366,200 units in the United States and an additional 37,850 in Canada. These toys were sold at various retailers nationwide, both in-store and online, from April 2020 through August 2024. Retailers included Walmart, Kohls, Fred Meyer, Hobby Lobby, Marshalls, TJMaxx, Buy Buy Baby, and Target, as well as online platforms like Amazon.com, Walmart.com, Zulily.com, and Target.com. The Baby Biceps Gift Set was sold for approximately $18.
Identifying the Recalled Product
The recalled product is the dumbbell toy from the Fisher-Price Baby Biceps Gift Set. The dumbbell is characterized by:
- A gray plastic bar
- Orange and red plastic weights on each end
- Gray end caps that can detach.
The model number GJD49 is located on the back of the kettlebell toy within the same gift set. If your set has this model number, the dumbbell toy is part of the recall.
What is the Baby Biceps Gift Set?
The Baby Biceps Gift Set is a collection of four gym-themed toys designed for infants 3 months and older. Besides the recalled dumbbell toy, the set includes:
- A protein shake toy that jingles
- A kettlebell toy that rattles.
- A soft headband that looks like a sweatband
It is important to note that only the dumbbell toy is subject to the recall. The other items in the gift set are safe for continued use.
Incidents and Injuries
As of the recall date, Fisher-Price had received seven reports in the United States of the gray end caps detaching from the dumbbell toy. While these incidents raised concerns, it is fortunate that no injuries have been reported due to this issue. Similarly, in Canada, there have been 4 reports of the end caps coming off, with no injuries reported.
The Importance of a Recall
A recall is a crucial step taken by manufacturers to address safety issues with their products. It’s designed to protect consumers from potential harm by removing dangerous items from circulation and providing a remedy for affected consumers. In the case of the Fisher-Price dumbbell toy, the recall was initiated to proactively prevent potential choking hazards and to ensure the safety of infants and children.
What to Do if You Own the Recalled Toy
If you have purchased the Fisher-Price Baby Biceps Gift Set with the model number GJD49, you should immediately stop using the dumbbell toy. Follow these steps:
- Discontinue Use: Immediately take the dumbbell toy away from your child.
- Contact Fisher-Price: Contact Fisher-Price to receive a refund for the dumbbell toy.
- Visit the Mattel Website: Go to the Mattel website dedicated to recalls, located at www.service.mattel.com/us/recall.aspx.
- Upload a Photo: Follow the instructions on the website to upload a photo of the dumbbell toy. You do not need a receipt for a refund.
- Properly Dispose of the Toy: Follow the instructions provided on the website for safe disposal of the dumbbell toy.
Refund Information
Fisher-Price is offering a refund of $10 for the recalled dumbbell toy. Consumers do not need to provide proof of purchase, such as a receipt, to receive the refund. Once you submit the required information, including a photo of the toy, and verify its proper disposal, Fisher-Price will issue the refund. Consumers can keep the other toys in the Baby Biceps Gift Set.
Contacting Fisher-Price
For any additional questions or if you have issues submitting your claim online, you can contact Fisher-Price toll-free at 855-853-6224 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. You can also reach them via email through their consumer support website.
Why This Recall is Important
This recall is crucial because it addresses a potential safety risk to infants and young children. Choking hazards are a serious concern for this age group, and proactive measures like recalls are essential to preventing harm. The fact that the end caps of the dumbbell toy can detach and become small, ingestible pieces creates a significant risk.
Toy Safety Standards
Toy manufacturers must adhere to strict safety standards to ensure their products are safe for children. These standards cover various aspects, from the materials used to the design and construction of the toys. When a product does not meet these standards or presents a risk, recalls become necessary.
Additional Information
The recalled dumbbell toy was manufactured in China and Vietnam. The recall is being conducted in both the United States and Canada.
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is the government agency responsible for overseeing recalls and ensuring product safety. You can find more information about this recall and other safety alerts on their website.
Fisher-Price Commitment to Safety
Fisher-Price has a long history of providing safe toys for children. They are committed to product safety and have initiated this recall to ensure that all of their products meet the highest safety standards. They are working to ensure that all consumers who own the recalled dumbbell toy receive a refund and are made aware of the hazard.
Conclusion
The Fisher-Price recall of the dumbbell toy in the Baby Biceps Gift Set highlights the importance of product safety and the proactive measures that manufacturers take to protect consumers. If you have purchased this gift set, it is crucial to stop using the dumbbell toy immediately and follow the instructions provided by Fisher-Price to receive a refund. By taking these steps, you can help prevent any potential harm to infants and ensure the safety of your children. Always stay informed about recalls and other safety alerts from the CPSC and product manufacturers.
