CPSC Issues Warning On Sling Carriers

Citing at least 14 deaths associated with sling-style infant carriers in the last 20 years, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is advising parents and caregivers to be cautious when using infant slings for babies younger than four months of age.

The statement, which was released on Friday, said slings can pose suffocation hazards to babies by blocking their airways or placing them in a position that curls the chin to the chest, restricting oxygen supply.

Click below to view the statement and the illustrations that show how the CPSC recommends caregivers carry babies in slings. http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10165.html

Two months ago, the commission added slings to the list of durable infant products that require a mandatory standard. Until a mandatory standard is developed, the CPSC is working with ASTM International to complete a voluntary standard for infant sling carriers.