Federal safety regulators are issuing a stark warning to parents and caregivers regarding the use of certain baby pillows that have been linked to the tragic deaths of ten infants. Despite being recalled two years ago, these dangerous products are still being sold on Facebook Marketplace, putting countless babies at risk. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has raised concerns about the ongoing availability of the Boppy Newborn Loungers on the platform, urging consumers to immediately stop using them. This article delves into the details surrounding the recall, the alarming number of deaths, and the urgent call to action for Facebook to address this critical safety issue.
The Recall and Persisting Risk:
In September 2021, The Boppy Co. recalled over 3 million infant pillows due to the risk of suffocation they posed. Reports indicate that eight deaths were associated with Boppy’s loungers between 2015 and 2020, leading to the initial recall. Shockingly, two additional babies lost their lives shortly after the recall was initiated. The CPSC has made multiple requests to Facebook Marketplace, seeking the removal of the recalled items from the platform, but these efforts have yet to yield significant results.
Facebook’s Responsibility and CPSC’s Concerns:
The CPSC took the matter directly to Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook. In a letter addressed to Zuckerberg, the agency expressed its deep concern about the continued sale of the Boppy Newborn Loungers on Facebook Marketplace. Commissioner Richard Trumka emphasized that until these sales are halted, infants will remain in danger of death. The CPSC further criticized Meta’s inadequate response to the numerous takedown requests made over the past year, averaging around a thousand per month for the Boppy loungers alone.
Marketplace Safety and Accountability:
Meta’s online policy explicitly states that recalled products should not be promoted or sold on Marketplace, and it encourages users to check for current recalls before making purchases. The company claims that it promptly removes listings that violate these rules. However, the presence of the recalled Boppy loungers on the platform raises concerns about the efficacy of Facebook’s enforcement efforts. Meta acknowledges that instances of knowingly or unknowingly selling recalled goods occur but assures users that it takes the issue seriously and removes listings in violation of their rules.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Efforts:
The CPSC has not only requested action from Facebook but has also made similar takedown requests to other online secondhand marketplaces concerning various recalled products. One such product is the Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play sleeper, which has also been linked to infant deaths. The agency emphasizes that the safest sleeping environment for babies is a firm, flat surface in a crib, bassinet, or play yard, and stresses the importance of never adding blankets, pillows, or other potentially hazardous items to an infant’s sleeping area.
Consumer Guidance and Refunds:
To protect infants from the risks associated with the recalled Boppy loungers, the CPSC urges consumers to discontinue their use immediately. Babies can suffocate if they roll over, are placed in a position that restricts breathing, or move off the pillow. The CPSC advises parents and caregivers to place babies to sleep on their backs on a firm, flat surface. Those who have purchased any of the recalled products are encouraged to contact The Boppy Company for a refund and detailed instructions on how to safely dispose of the items.
Conclusion:
The sale of recalled baby pillows on Facebook Marketplace presents a severe threat to the safety and well-being of infants. With the CPSC’s urgent warning, it is crucial for parents and caregivers to be aware of the risks associated with these dangerous products and take immediate action to protect their little ones. Simultaneously, pressure mounts on Facebook to address the issue swiftly and comprehensively, ensuring the removal of all recalled items from Marketplace to prevent further tragedies.
