CPSC Issues Urgent Warning on Hiccapop Play Yard Mattresses Due to Safety Risks
Urgent Warning on Hiccapop Play Yard Mattresses
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently raised alarms over the safety of Hiccapop PlayPad play yard mattresses, stating that these products pose significant risks to infants. Specifically, the CPSC advised all consumers to discontinue the use of model HP-TPM-2 mattresses immediately due to the potential for deadly entrapment and suffocation hazards.
Background on the Issue
Hiccapop PlayPad mattresses, which were sold separately from play yards, have been flagged for failing to comply with federal thickness and size regulations. This serious oversight creates dangerous gaps between the mattress and the play yard walls, a design flaw that has resulted in tragic suffocation incidents where babies became trapped. According to reports, infants have suffocated when their faces became wedged between undersized mattresses and the side walls of play yards, virtually eliminating their ability to breathe.
The design of these mattresses, measuring 37.5 inches by 26.5 inches, does not meet the requirements mandated for products sold separately from play yards. The specific model, identified as HP-TPM-2, has been on sale across various platforms from March through November of 2024, with prices ranging from $24 to $120. Notably, the manufacturer, Keezio Group LLC, based in Alamo, California, had not agreed to any recall or proposed remedy at the time the warning was issued.
Details of the Safety Concerns
The crisis is further exacerbated by the fact that more than 108,000 mattresses are currently in consumer homes. Parents and caregivers are urged to follow these safety guidelines to protect infants:
1. Always use the mattress that comes with your play yard or one specifically designed for that model.
2. Avoid adding extra padding or additional mattresses.
3. Ensure that only fitted sheets are used without blankets, pillows, or bumper pads.
These precautions are indispensable in preventing suffocation incidents linked to improper mattress use.
CPSC's Official Notice
The CPSC is taking this matter seriously, urging consumers to dispose of the hazardous mattresses without attempting to sell or give them away. They emphasized that individuals experiencing injuries or issues related to these products should report them through their online platform, www.SaferProducts.gov.
Importantly
This cautionary statement serves as a critical reminder of the risks associated with consumer products. With over one trillion dollars lost annually in the U.S. due to injuries stemming from unsafe consumer products, the CPSC is committed to ensuring a safer environment for all.
Commissioner statements related to this product safety issue may be found on their official website, where ongoing updates will be provided.
Conclusion
As the safety risks surrounding Hiccapop PlayPad mattresses become increasingly apparent, it is crucial for consumers to heed the warnings of the CPSC. By staying informed and promptly taking action regarding these products, parents can significantly reduce the risk of serious harm to their infants. Always prioritize safety above all when selecting products for your children.