The Honourable Peter Lawlor
08/02/2011
Consumer safety alert - warning on popular strollers
Fair Trading has serious concerns about two models of Phil & Teds strollers based on their stability when fitted with an additional seat.
Fair Trading Minister Peter Lawlor said the department became concerned about the Sports v2 and Vibe models after conducting independent testing, which found the strollers failed safety requirements.
"Unfortunately with both models there is a risk of injury to children when the extra seat is attached. If the child in the front is removed before the child in the back seat, the stroller may become unstable and tip over," he said.
"People should strictly follow manufacturer's instructions which state parents should never place a single child in the rear seat, and in the case of two children, always unload the child in the back seat first."
Mr Lawlor also warned parents to be cautious of the Phil & Teds Sports v2 and Classic v1 model's hinge after a number of serious finger injuries had been reported to Fair Trading.
"Fair Trading contacted Phil & Teds about injuries parents had sustained when opening or closing the Sports v2 stroller," he said.
"As a result, Phil & Teds issued an international safety recall on both its Sports v2 and Classic v1 strollers due to the risk of finger injury, and will supply a free hinge guard to help prevent any further injuries."
Anyone who purchased one of these models with a serial number between 0308/0001 and 0510/0906 should contact the retailer to obtain a free safety kit.
People can contact Phil & Teds for further information on
1800 888 586.
When buying a pram you should:
• ensure the stroller frame locking system is fully engaged before placing a child in the stroller
• always keep fingers away from any hinge when opening or closing the stroller
• know how to apply the brake - this is very important, especially with three-wheeled strollers that can roll away quickly if the brake is not applied
• ensure the pram or stroller has no gaps that could trap your baby's head, limbs or fingers
• always use the tether strap as an added safety measure.
If you have suffered a finger injury with a Phil & Teds pram please call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) and ask to be put through to the Product Safety Unit or email safety@deedi.qld.gov.au
More details on the recall can be obtained from: www.recalls.gov.au
For a copy of the safety warning notice visit the consumer alert page on www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au
