Jennifer Kerr reports, “six companies are recalling millions of window blinds and shades, following the deaths of three children who got caught in cords that help the coverings move up and down” (AP, 8/26). The recalls were announced last week by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and involve some “big-name companies, including Pottery Barn Kids, IKEA,” and some smaller retailers who sold their products at large retailers such as Target.
None of the deaths were associated with the IKEA or Pottery Barn Kids blinds, but there had been reports of children becoming entangled in the inner cords. The commission's new chairman, Inez Tennenbaum says the recalled blinds “pose a hidden hazard,” and urges “all parents to inspect their blinds and shades immediately and obtain the free repair or refund the companies are offering to consumers.”
As a Chicago personal injury lawyer, I join Ms. Tennanbaum in her sentiments and further suggest that parents consider other child proofing mechanisms on all binds and shades. For more information on the details of the recall visit www.cpsc.gov.
