April 13, 2000

A children's product company is recalling more than 7 million baby swings.

The Graco swings sold before 1997 lack the proper child restraints. Six infant deaths and nearly 200 injuries prompted the recall.

The restraint systems on the older swings consist of a waist belt only and a hinged or removable tray, which serves as a restraint. If parts are missing, the restraints are not used, or the tray pops off, infants can slip down into the seat and strangle or fall from the swing.

The six deaths occurred when parts were missing or the restraints were not used and infants slid down the swings' seats and became tangled in the restraints.

In five instances, the swings were second hand. Of 209 incidents, 181 were reports of infants falling from the swing. In nine of the falls, infants suffered serious injuries including bone fractures and concussions. Twenty-two infants were caught at the neck or chest.

The company is offering free safety kits. Visit the Graco web site to order a safety kit.

Or contact Graco at:
(800)-934-9082
Consumers should have the swing in front of them when they call the hotline

Or write:

Customer Affairs, Graco Children's Products Inc.
Box 100
Elverson, PA 19520