"Astro-Lounger" recliner chairs
CPSC Recall #96-056 — December 25, 1995
Product
"Astro-Lounger" recliner chairs
Description
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- CPSC, Astro-Lounger Furniture Manufacturing Company Inc., of Houkla, Miss., is recalling approximately 1,000 recliner chairs. The space between the chair's seat and footrest, measuring 6.75 inches, does not meet voluntary industry standards. The space is large enough to entrap a child's head and strangle the child. The American Furniture Manufacturers Association (AFMA) guidelines for recliners, established in 1988, specify that openings between the upholstered seat and leg rest should not be greater than five inches. Recliner chairs that do not conform with industry guidelines present a head entrapment hazard and should not be used around small children. If a child's head or neck gets caught in the large opening between the chair seat and leg rest and the child leans forward, his weight could force the leg rest down. The leg rest could close on the child's neck, strangling him. CPSC is aware of one incident in which a 13-month-old child died in a recliner. The chairs, which are upholstered in beige, blue, brown or mauve fabric, have a label that reads "Astro-Lounger" on the foot rest. The chairs were sold through furniture stores nationwide from 1990 to January 1994 for approximately $99 each. Consumers who own Astro-Lounger recliner chairs should measure the space between the seat and footrest. If the opening is greater than five inches, consumers should stop using the chair immediately and call Astro-Lounger at (800) 700-6945. The company will send consumers a free crossbar to attach between the seat and footrest, which is designed to reduce the space and prevent a child's head from getting caught.
Hazard
The space between the chair's seat and footrest, measuring 6.75 inches, does not meet voluntary industry standards. The space is large enough to entrap a child's head and strangle the child.
Incidents / Injuries
CPSC is aware of one incident in which a 13-month-old child died in a recliner.
Remedy
If the opening is greater than five inches, consumers should stop using the chair immediately and call Astro-Lounger at (800) 700-6945. The company will send consumers a free crossbar to attach between the seat and footrest, which is designed to reduce the space and prevent a child's head from getting caught.
Units Affected
Approximately 1,000
Manufacturer
Astro-Lounger Furniture Manufacturing Company Inc., of Houkla, Miss.