Drop-side cribs pose potential hazards

Health Canada
News Release

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Health Canada would like to remind parents and caregivers of the potential hazards related to the use of drop-side cribs. In the recent past, Health Canada has worked in collaboration with a number of companies to voluntarily recall various models (one pictured) of drop-side cribs, as reported incidents have underlined potential health and safety hazards related to the use of these products.

There are a number of steps that consumers can take:

Consult the Consumer Product Recalls Database to verify if their model of crib has been recalled and what further action is recommended.

Parents and caregivers should also regularly verify the safety of their baby's crib.

Cribs should not be used if any parts are loose or missing or if there are any signs of damage.
Cribs should also not be used if they can not be assembled properly as per the instructions.

Only parts obtained from the original manufacturer must be used for repairs. Broken crib parts must not be repaired with tape, wire or rope.

Health Canada understands that Canadians are concerned about product safety, especially products for their children. Health Canada regularly tests children's products on the Canadian market and will continue to monitor the marketplace to keep children safe. For instance, the Department is currently testing cribs available on the Canadian market to determine if they meet existing requirements and will continue to monitor complaints related to specific products.

All cribs, including drop-side ones, sold, advertised or imported into Canada must comply with the requirements of the Cribs and Cradles Regulations, requirements which are already among the strictest in the world. In an effort to help make children's products available on the market even safer and to receive useful feedback, the Department recently proposed new requirements for bassinets and changes to the existing regulations that will strengthen the requirements for all cribs. Health Canada is aiming to move forward with the next steps in this process later this year. Health Canada is also actively participating in discussions with Canadian and U.S. manufacturers, safety advocates and government officials regarding the overall safety of cribs.

There are a number of ways consumers and parents can keep themselves informed:

Sign up for updates from the Consumer Product Recalls Database and follow Health Canada on Twitter, where this information is shared regularly.

Visit Health Canada’s website for more information on:
Current steps Canada has taken to make cribs, cradles and bassinets safer for young children Crib requirements in Canada and the safe use of cribs Safe Sleep Practices for Infants

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