On May 17, 2010, Family Dollar Stores recalled toy dart gun sets that were linked to the deaths of two children. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also issued a warning to consumers about the dangers associated with the kids’ toy sets. Henry Gordy International Inc., the distributing company of the toys, has refused to issue a recall on the toy sets.
Toy Dart Gun Sets Recalled by Family Dollar
The gun sets were available in Family Dollar Stores across the United States. The dart guns were produced from September 2005 to January 2009. There were two different color designs for the guns but both sold for about $1.50. It was estimated by Family Dollar Stores Inc. that 1.8 million sets were sold during the production period.
The Auto Fire toy dart gun sets were available in one of two design colors. The guns could be purchased in either orange and yellow or blue and yellow. The model number of the orange and yellow gun was P238. The model of the blue and yellow gun was 9328.
A target was packaged in the set with the numbers 1 through 20 printed on the front. Small plastic darts also made up the contents of the package. The words, “Gordy Toy” were printed on the back board of the package.
Defect in the Toy Dart Gun Sets for Kids
Family Dollar Stores Inc. released the information that the deaths of two children were linked to the use of the kids’ product. In both incidents, the children suffocated on a dart once it became lodged in the child’s throat. No additional reports of injury or incident were received based on the use of the toy sets.
The defect of the toy set is not specifically focused on the toy guns but on the darts packaged in the set. The one inch darts contain a suction cup at on end. The small cups are about a half inch in diameter. The small size can create a choke hazard for unattended children if the darts are swallowed.
Action to Take Following Recall of Dart Gun Sets From Henry Gordy International
The toy sets are unsafe and should be removed from children as soon as possible. Individuals may discard the product but this action could complicate the consumer’s ability to receive a refund. The toy gun dart sets can be returned to any Family Dollar store for a full refund.
Consumers may contact Family Dollar Inc. at (800) 547-0359 between the hours of 8am and 5pm, Monday through Friday to receive refund information. Individuals may also visit the Family Dollar website for more recall information or to browse additional products from the company.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission provides recall information on items from across the United States for interested individuals.
Readers who have found this article informative may also like to read additional recalls on Claire’s Boutiques Kid’s Metal Charm Bracelets, Roberta Roller Rabbit Kids’ Sleepwear, and Gap Baby Swimsuits.
Source:
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, “Children’s Deaths Prompt Recall of Toy Dart Gun Sets Sold Exclusively at Family Dollar Stores.” News From CPSC (accessed May 17, 2010).
Christopher Clayton - After I received my M.S. in Human Development I continued to work in Human Services. I focus on the care and supports that children ...
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