More than 400,000 popular BOB jogging strollers were recalled in the U.S. and Canada this week over choking concerns. The recall follows a previous recall in February of more than 350,000 units of similar stroller models. In both cases, the strollers’ manufacturer has some relatively easy fixes for the problem.
The current recall involves 11 models of single and double BOB jogging strollers, which have logos embroidered on their canopies: BOB, Ironman or Stroller Strides (see photos here). The embroidery is backed by a patch on the interior of the canopy that can be removed by a child and put in his or her mouth, presenting a choking hazard.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says the manufacturer has received six reports of children mouthing a detached patch backing. Two cases involved choking and gagging, but all children were unharmed.
These strollers were sold on Amazon.com and at REI, Babies “R” Us and other children’s product and sporting goods stores nationwide between Nov. 1998 and Oct. 2011 for $280 to $600.
The February recall also involved 11 models of single and double BOB strollers — mostly the same models involved in the current recall — identifiable by a yellow-orange drawstring at the rear of the canopy, which is used to gather up loose fabric when the canopy is pulled back. The drawstring poses a strangulation hazard, since it can get wrapped around a child’s neck.
BOB has received one report of an incident involving an 11-month-old girl in the U.S. who got entangled in the drawstring, but was not injured. These strollers were sold at REI and Buy Buy Baby, among other stores nationwide, and online at Babiesrus.com, Target.com and Amazon.com between April 2002 and Feb. 2011 for $300 to $600.
If you have one of the affected strollers — with an embroidery patch, yellow-orange drawstring or both — the good news is that you don’t necessarily have to toss it. You should stop using it, however, until you’ve corrected both issues, which is pretty quick and easy to do.
For the patch problem, you can visit the BOB website to register your stroller and get emailed instructions for removing the patch. Or, you can call 855-242-2245 or email CS_Embroidery_Backing@bobnotices.com for the info.
To eliminate the drawstring hazard, you may simply eliminate the drawstring. Just unknot it and take it off. But if you’re using the stroller with either the optional weather shield or sun shield, then you’ll need a retrofit kit for the canopy, which will allow you to gather excess fabric in the back and ensure proper airflow to your child.
To get the retrofit kit, visit the BOB website and register your stroller. For a how-to on drawstring removal and installation of the retrofit kit, check out the video below:
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