10/15/2024
Fisher-Price has issued a recall of more than 2 million "Snuga Swings" due to a suffocation risk, with five infant deaths linked to the product between 2012 and 2022. The swings were reportedly used improperly for sleep, and in many cases, the infants were unrestrained, with added bedding materials contributing to the fatal outcomes.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the design of the Snuga Swings—especially when used incorrectly with blankets or pillows—can cause fatal positioning issues. Despite this, Fisher-Price’s recall suggests parents can continue using the swings if they remove certain components, including the headrest and body support insert. However, some safety advocates have criticized the recall as inadequate, recommending that parents stop using the product entirely to prevent further harm.
The Snuga Swings were sold widely in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with Fisher-Price offering only a $25 refund to consumers. The refund, which many feel is insufficient given the swings' original retail price of around $160, has drawn backlash from both parents and consumer safety experts.
This recall is not the first time Fisher-Price has faced scrutiny. In 2019, the company recalled its Rock 'n Play sleepers after they were linked to over 100 infant deaths. The recent Snuga Swings recall has reignited concerns about whether Fisher-Price is adequately addressing safety issues before releasing products into the market.
Recall Details
- Recall Date: October 10, 2024
- Models Affected: All models of Fisher-Price Snuga Swings (see complete list of model numbers here).
- Where Sold: These swings were sold at major retailers including Amazon, Toys R Us, Walmart, Sam's Club, and Target from October 2010 through January 2024
What Should Parents Do?
If you own a Snuga Swing, the CPSC advises discontinuing its use immediately and applying for the refund by visiting Fisher-Price's recall site or calling their customer service line. Although the recall offers an option to modify the swing by removing certain inserts, we recommend erring on the side of caution and discontinuing use entirely.
How Families Can Seek Compensation for Injuries Caused by a Deadly Product
When a product designed for infants, such as the Fisher-Price Snuga Swings, leads to harm or even death, affected families may have the right to seek compensation through legal channels. Chicago Product liability lawyers are here to protect consumers from unsafe products and holds manufacturers accountable for the design, manufacturing, and marketing of their goods.
In cases involving dangerous or defective products, families can pursue claims based on the following legal theories:
- Defective Design – If the product’s inherent design creates a significant risk of harm, families can claim that the manufacturer failed to ensure the product was safe before selling it to the public.
- Manufacturing Defects – This occurs when a product was made incorrectly, deviating from its intended design, and that defect caused harm.
- Failure to Warn – If the manufacturer did not adequately warn consumers about potential risks, especially when used under foreseeable circumstances, they can be held liable.
Legal Options for Families Harmed by the Snuga Swings
Families impacted by the Snuga Swings tragedy have several legal avenues to explore:
- Product Liability Claims: These claims can be pursued against Fisher-Price if the swing's defective design, poor manufacturing, or insufficient warnings contributed to the injuries or fatalities.
- Wrongful Death Lawsuits: For families who have lost a loved one, particularly a child, wrongful death claims can help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and compensation for pain and suffering.
Why Legal Action is Important
Holding Fisher-Price accountable not only helps secure compensation for families but also sends a message to manufacturers about the importance of rigorous safety testing and consumer protection. Legal action can spur recalls, ensure safer products for future consumers, and prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.
At Meyers & Flowers, we are committed to helping families impacted by defective products like the Snuga Swings. If your family has been affected, contact us for a free consultation to explore your legal options. We are here to fight for justice and ensure that no other family has to suffer because of a preventable defect in a product designed for infants.