In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics recently urged the CPSC to order a recall on the Rock ‘n Play immediately, claiming that its April 5 statement “did not go far enough to ensure safety and protect infants.”
“This product is deadly and should be recalled immediately,” said AAP President Dr. Kyle Yasuda, MD, FAAP, in his organization’s statement. “When parents purchase a product for their baby or child, many assume that if it’s being sold in a store, it must be safe to use. Tragically, that is not the case.”
“There is convincing evidence that the Rock ‘n Play inclined sleeper puts infants’ lives at risk, and CPSC must step up and take immediate action to remove it from stores and prevent further tragedies,” he added.
At least 10 deaths occurred after infants rolled over in the product, which ranges in price from $59.99-$119.99, according to the CPSC, which stated that infants rolled from their back to their stomach or side while unrestrained.
“The CPSC is aware of 10 infant deaths in the Rock ‘n Play that have occurred since 2015, after the infants rolled from their back to their stomach or side, while unrestrained. All 10 infants were 3 months or older,” the CPSC said in the April 5 statement.
Mattel, Fisher-Price’s parent company, previously said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE that while “the safety of children is our highest priority” as “the loss of a child is tragic and heartbreaking,” the company plans to “stand by the safety of the Rock ‘n Play Sleeper.”
“The product meets all applicable safety standards, including those of the international standards organization, known as ASTM International, and is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA),” the statement continued. “We continue to work closely with the Consumer Product Safety Commission regarding the safe use of our products, including the Rock ‘n Play Sleeper.”
“It is essential that the product warnings and instructions are always followed. We will continue to do all we can to ensure that parents and caregivers have the information necessary to create a safe sleep environment for infants.”