Maclaren recalled about one million umbrella strollers in the U.S. (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission)More than one million Maclaren strollers have been recalled in the U.S. after reports that 12 children had their fingertips cut off by the hinge mechanism.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall Monday. It involves all Maclaren single and double umbrella strollers, including the Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller.
Health Canada has no plan for a recall here, despite the fact about 100,000 identical models have been sold across the country since 1999. No injuries have been reported.
Canadian customers who have concerns will be eligible for a free repair kit, which consists of a fabric sleeve that can be slipped over the folding hinge, said Sam Perez, president and CEO of Kushies Baby, the Brampton, Ont.-based Canadian distributor of Maclaren strollers.
Maclaren USA has received 15 reports of children placing their fingers in the stroller's hinge mechanism, resulting in 12 reports of fingertip damage. The safety commission said the problem involves the stroller's hinge mechanism as it is opened and unfolded.
Perez expressed surprise that any injuries were reported in the U.S. He said nearly all folding strollers use the same type of hinge mechanism.
"If you look at the stroller, [a finger laceration] can only happen if the child is in the stroller and you're trying to close it. It's a very, very weird situation," said Perez.
The Maclaren strollers range in price from $100 and $360 US and were made in China between 1999 through November 2009.
The British-based firm touts its umbrella strollers for their light weight, solid design, and ease of use, which includes the ability for the stroller to be unfolded with one hand in five seconds.
Consumers are warned to stop using the recalled strollers and contact Maclaren USA to receive a free repair kit.
