Knoxville infant sleep experts stress risks amid Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleeper recall
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) - A warning for parents as Fisher-Price continues recalling all models of its Rock 'n Play Sleepers after reports of more than 30 infants dying while in the sleeper.
This recall impacts 4.7 million sleepers.
Fisher-Price saying since 2009, these 30 infant fatalities happened when an infant rolled from their back onto their stomach or side while unrestrained.
The sleeper does feature restraints and buckles.
Local parents react to recall
Claire Alcorn has two children and her most recent son, Andy, is now three weeks old. Llike many moms, she uses a Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleeper.
"It's the only thing he'll sleep in. The only thing he'll sleep in and it goes where I go,"said Alcorn.
Since learning about the recall, Alcorn says, she's worried and has done some research.
"I think if you follow the guidelines that they have in place and as long as you're keeping an eye on your child, I don't think you'll have any issues at all."
Local experts weigh in
The Knox County Health Department says parents need to take this recall seriously.
"Some of these products are very, very popular. They're marketed in a way that makes you think this is a safe place for your baby to sleep and that's just not the case,"said Katie Larsen, with KCHD.
Sleep-related Infant Deaths in Tennessee
Annually, KCHD says, more than 140 sleep-related infant deaths occur in Tennessee. In Knox County, KCHD says between four to six infants die while sleeping each year.
"We want parents to know there's a risk,"said Larsen.
Sleep Safety for Babies
Sleep safety comes down to never adding things like blankets, pillows, stuffed toys or anything else to your baby's sleep environment.
Babies should always sleep alone, on their back, on a flat firm surface and in a crib, according to Larsen.
Health Dept. advises against Rock 'n Play Sleeper
KCHD stressing parents need to stop using the Rock 'n Play Sleeper immediately.
"There really is a risk and no one puts their baby down to sleep thinking they're not going to wake up,"said Larsen.
Consumers can contact Fisher-Price for a refund of the affected product.
Head to www.service.mattel.com and click on “Recalls & Safety Alerts”
or at 866-812-6518 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (EST) Monday through Friday for more information.