About 5.7 million Contigo Kids Cleanable Water Bottles have been recalled because the silicone spout can detach and pose a choking hazard for children. According to a CNN news report, the Chicago-based company has received 149 complaints so far, including 18 incidents in which a spout was discovered in a child’s mouth. No injuries have been reported as a result of these product defects.
Details of the Recall
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has urged parents and caregivers to take these bottles away from children immediately. The Contigo bottles, which cost between $9 and $24, were sold nationwide at a number of retail and wholesale stores, including Costco, Wal-Mart and Target as well as online between April 2018 and June 2019. The recalled bottles come in three sizes (13, 14, and 20 ounces) and four colors – solid, graphics, stainless steel, and stainless steel solid.
The word “Contigo” is printed on the rim and near the bottom at the front of the bottle. The company has said it will supply a free replacement lid for the defective products. According to the company’s website, only black-colored spout base and spout cover models are included in this recall. Consumers can also fill out an online form to receive the free replacement lid. The company said it voluntarily recalled the defective lids.
Choking and Defective Products
Choking refers to a blockage of the upper airway, which prevents a person from breathing properly. Choking often results in a coughing fit from which a person could recover fairly quickly. However, when there is a complete blockage of the airway, death could occur. Choking is a true medical emergency that requires swift, appropriate action. Oxygen cannot enter the lungs when someone is choking with a completely blocked airway. The brain is very sensitive to lack of oxygen and begins to die within four to six minutes. Irreversible brain damage could occur in as little as 10 minutes.
There are many defectively manufactured or defectively designed products that could cause choking deaths. Children’s products, particularly toys, nursery products and items such as water bottles, could present serious dangers, which could result in catastrophic injuries or even death. Product manufacturers are responsible for designing and making items that are safe for consumers. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a dangerous or defective product, please contact an experienced product defect lawyer to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/27/health/contigo-water-bottle-recall-trnd/index.html
