Recall alert: choking risk from gingerbread cushions sold at The Range and Wilko

In the United Kingdom, the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a recall of Gingerbread Shaped Cushions sold at The Range and Wilko. These cushions, designed to be attractive to children, present a significant choking hazard due to detachable red pom poms that can easily come off. The potential for choking arises if a child ingests a detached pom pom, as it can fit within a small parts cylinder used for safety testing. The cushions are manufactured in China and are available in two designs: a male gingerbread man with a red bow and a female gingerbread woman with a similar decorative feature on her head. The safety alert specifically cites batches 2421, 2422, and 2423, indicating products purchased from The Range and Wilko should be removed from children's reach immediately. The OPSS has reinforced the fact that such products must meet the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011, however, these cushions have been deemed non-compliant. Parents and guardians are urged to return the cushions to either store for a full refund. The OPSS and The Range have both emphasized the importance of customer safety in light of this recall. In a statement addressing the situation, The Range has expressed its apologies for any inconvenience caused and appreciates customer cooperation in returning the product for a refund. Since the announcement has reached consumers, it is vital for those in possession of the Gingerbread Shaped Cushions to take immediate action to ensure child safety. While this recall has only recently come to public attention, it highlights ongoing concerns regarding product safety standards within the market for children’s toys. As a result of this recall, parents are reminded to remain vigilant regarding product safety, especially during the busy holiday shopping season. Although the recall emphasizes the specific choking risk associated with these cushions, it also serves as a broader reminder of the potential dangers posed by seemingly innocuous children’s products. The OPSS encourages any parents who may have further queries or concerns to contact The Range directly or to review their recall alerts online. This approach underscores the importance of regulatory oversight in safeguarding consumer products designed for children, ensuring compliance with safety standards that can prevent potential harm.