Key Takeaway
CPSC, Window Covering Industry Announce Recall to Repair Window Blinds was recalled on November 1, 2000. What to do: Consumers who have window blinds with cords in their homes should call the Window Covering Safety Council to receive a free repair kit for each set of...
CPSC, Window Covering Industry Announce Recall to Repair Window Blinds
Description
The recall involves millions of window blinds with pull cords and inner cords that can form a loop and cause strangulation. In 1995, CPSC worked with the window covering industry to redesign new window blinds to eliminate the outer loop on the end of pull cords and provide free repair kits so consumers could fix their existing blinds. CPSC issued a safety alert about this hazard and what consumers can do about it, including a detailed description of the free repair kits. Window blinds sold since 1995 no longer have pull cords ending in loops. As a result of the new CPSC investigation, the industry has further redesigned window blinds. Newly manufactured blinds have attachments on the pull cords so that the inner cords can't form a loop if pulled by a young child.
Injuries / Consequence
Since 1991, CPSC has received reports of 130 strangulations involving cords on window blinds. 114 strangulations involve the outer pull cords, and 16 involve the inner cords that hold the blind slats.
Remedy
Consumers who have window blinds with cords in their homes should call the Window Covering Safety Council to receive a free repair kit for each set of blinds in the home. The repair kit will include small plastic attachments to prevent the inner cords from being pulled loose. The kit also includes safety tassels for pre-1995 window blinds with outer pull cords ending in loops. Consumers should cut the loops and install a safety tassel at the end of each pull cord. Consumers who have vertical blinds, draperies or pleated shades with continuous loop cords should request special tie-downs to prevent strangulation in those window coverings. Parents should keep window covering cords and chains permanently out of the reach of children. Never place a child's crib within reach of a window blind. Unless the cords can be completely removed from the child's reach, including when the child climbs on furniture, CPSC recommends that parents never knot or tie the cords together because this creates a new loop in which a child could become entangled.
Products Affected
Window blinds with pull cords and inner cords
Blinds, Shades & CordsRelated Recalls
Lutron Electronics Recalls Roller Shades Due to Impact Hazard
February 3, 2016
Hunter Douglas Recalls to Repair Custom Cellular and Pleated Window Coverings Due to Strangulation Hazard
November 21, 2012
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores Recalls Roll-Up Blinds due to Risk of Strangulation
September 9, 2010
Near Strangulation Prompts Recall of Roman and Roller Shades by Smith+Noble
July 22, 2010
Risk of Strangulation Prompts Recall to Repair Roll-Up Blinds by Chicology
June 15, 2010
IKEA Recalls Roller Blinds, all Roman Blinds and all Roll-Up Blinds Due to Risk of Strangulation
June 10, 2010
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recall still active?
Check the status badge at the top of this page. "Ongoing" means the recall is still active and you should follow the remedy instructions. "Completed" or "Terminated" means the recall process has concluded, though the safety issue remains relevant for any unrepaired products.
How do I check if my product is affected?
Compare the model number, lot code, serial number, or date range listed in the recall notice with the information on your product's label or packaging. For vehicles, check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/Recalls.
What remedy is available for this recall?
The listed remedy for this recall is: Consumers who have window blinds with cords in their homes should call the Window Covering Safety Council to receive a free repair kit for each set of blinds in the home. The repair kit will include s...
Where can I find the original recall notice?
This recall was issued by CPSC. You can view the original notice using the link provided above.