Infant Slings Linked to Deaths

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Those fashionable sling-style baby carriers that many parents favor are associated with 13 deaths over the last 20 years, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said Friday.

The government agency warned parents and caregivers to use the soft fabric slings with caution, especially for infants under 4 months old, because they can pose a suffocation hazard, the Associated Press reported.

Some of the babies who died in slings had a cold, were born prematurely or were a twin of low birth weight, the agency said.

The slings can pose breathing problems in two ways, the CPSC said. Cradling an infant without strong neck control in a curved or "C-like" position, below the mother's chest or near her stomach, can cause its head to flop forward, restricting breathing ability. "The baby will not be able to cry for help and can slowly suffocate," said the commission.

Also, the sling fabric can cover a baby's nose and mouth, suffocating a baby within minutes, the AP reported.

Of particular concern are so-called "bag style" slings, which wrap around the parent's neck and cradle the child in a curved position. One-week-old Derrik Fowler died in Oregon last year in such a sling.

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Anonymous

The CPSC issued a warning, and it was in reference to a few tragic accidents that occured over the past two decades. Those slings were quickly recalled and taken off the market.

As a retailer of baby carriers, slings and wraps, and a father who
uses many different types at home, I know first hand how important the
safety of these products is. I also know it is a top priority of all
the manufactures in the industry, and an enormous amount of time is
spent ensuring it stays that way.

Most baby carrier products come with precise instructions, as well as
an 800 support number if mothers/fathers have any questions. If worn
correctly, 99% of the baby carriers, slings and wraps on the market
are completely safe to use.

We welcome future regulation of the industry to ensure the slings, carriers and wraps being produced are safe for our family, friends, clients and the public to use.

Kyle K
Founder of www.organicbabycarriers.net

March 12, 2010 - 8:59pm