The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the agency responsible for monitoring consumer products, including toys, has recently recalled a number of products and toys, which you may have purchased as holiday gifts. I am listing five specific items, each of which poses a health hazard, according to the CPSC. If you or any one you know has purchased any of these products, please act in accordance with the instructions given by the CPSC.

  1. Academy Sports & Outdoor Girls BCG Hooded Windsuits – This product was sold exclusively at Academy Sports &Outdoors stores and website. The jacket was sold with drawstrings through the hood, which create a strangulation hazard to young children. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported to date. The CPSC recommends removing the drawstring or returning the product for a full refund. This recall was issued on December 5, 2013.
  2. Wearever Girls Hooded Jacket/Pants Set – This product was sold exclusively by Burlington coat factory, and was sold with drawstrings through the hood, creating a strangulation hazard to young children. No injuries have been reported, but the CPC recommends that you remove the drawstring or return the product for a full refund. This recall was issued on December 4, 2013.
  3. Manhattan Toy Quixel Baby Rattles – The colored arches of this product can break, creating a small part that poses a choking hazard to small children. The CPC reports for incidences of breaking, but fortunately no injuries. If you have purchased this product, you should take it away from the child and return it. This recall was issued on December 4, 2013.
  4. Sram Red WiFLi Rear Derailleur (Bike Part) – The derailleur is a bicycle part which facilitates shifting gears. This rear derailleur’s rear pivot pin can loosen or dislodge, posing a fall hazard. 43 incidents have been reported. If you have purchased this product, stop using it and return it to the store for free replacement. This recall was issued on December 4, 2013.
  5. K2 Sports Revo Kick kickboard/scooter – The front assembly of this kickboard/scooter can break and the handle can detach or partially detach, causing loss of control or loss of balance. If you purchase this product, stop using it and return it for a full refund. This recall was issued on December 4, 2013.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury go online to www.SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC’s Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or teletypewriter at (301) 595-7054 for the hearing impaired. Consumers can obtain news release and recall information at www.cpsc.gov, on Twitter @OnSafety or by subscribing to CPSC’s free e-mail newsletters.