Broken cribs prompt enormous recall

Federal safety officials announced one of the largest crib recalls in the nation's history Tuesday, June 24, with retailers voluntarily pulling 320,000 items due to breaking slats or spindles that can cause injury

The cribs, produced by Jardine Enterprises in China and Vietnam, sold from January 2002 until May 2008 in stores around the country. The cribs are being recalled because the slats and spindles on the frame of the crib can break, creating a gap where children can become trapped, and potentially injure themselves in.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has received notice of 42 cases of broken slats and spindles, four cases of children becoming trapped, and two reports of injuries (minor cuts and bruises). The recall was set off by a new early warning system federal safety officials have put into place that focuses on products used by children while they sleep. This system was formed after the Simplicity crib recall in September of last year.

Jardine has agreed issue vouchers for new cribs to consumers affected by the recall. Parents looking for more information can call Jardine at 800-646-4106 or go to www.jardinecribrecall.com.