Bunk Beds Recalled Over Strangulation, Entrapment Hazards; 1 Child Reported Dead

Thousands of bunk beds are being recalled due to the strangulation and entrapment hazards they pose. One death has been reported in connection with an affected product.

The problem with Angel Line Bunk Beds with Angled Ladders is that the metal hook that fastens the ladder to the top bunk can actually get detached or move away from the bed frame when it's lifted, a recall alert posted on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website noted.

Because of this issue, a gap that's wider than 3.5 inches is left between the bed frame and the ladder, posing strangulation and entrapment hazards. It is also a "violation of the federal standard for bunk beds," according to the company.

A 2-year-old boy from Columbus, Ohio, reportedly died after he was found unresponsive in the bunk bed's ladder gap in May 2018.

Recalled bunk beds

The recall affects about 39,900 units of three models of bunk beds: the Fremon Twin over Twin Bunk Bed with model numbers 71210-21, 71210-49 and 71210-67, the Creston Twin over Twin Bunk Bed with model numbers 71230-21, 71230-49 and 71230-75 and the Brandon Twin over Full Bunk Bed in model numbers 71420-21 and 71420-75.

The model numbers can be found on a label either on the headboard or footboard of the upper bunk. Photos of the affected bunk beds are available on both the CPSC and company websites. They were sold online via various websites from March 2016 to June 2021.

Those who have bought any of the recalled products should stop using them. They should also prevent any child from having access to the beds and contact the company to get a free repair kit.

"We recommend that you stop using the product until you install the reinforcement brackets," the company noted. "To prevent any injuries, Angel Line will be sending the reinforcement brackets that CPSC has approved so you can continue to use your bunk bed."

Customers can fill in the model number and manufacture date of the item in the form available on the company's website. The company will send the necessary reinforcement brackets to their homes "at no cost."

Bunk bed safety

Half of all bunk bed-related injuries happen in children under 6, according to the Nationwide Children's Hospital.

For bunk bed safety, one has to observe precautionary measures like using the right mattress size and ensuring the mattress foundation is strong. Kids below the age of 6 are said to be "too young" to sleep in the top bunk.

Moreover, it's important to never let children play on the ladder or bunk and keep the bed away from ceiling fans. Items such as belts, ropes and scarves shouldn't be attached to bunk beds as these may pose strangulation risks.

It's best to stop using a bunk bed if any parts of it are broken or damaged. Customers should also "be wary" of DIY bunk bed kits as they may not meet the safety guidelines.

"(A)n average of 36,000 bunk bed-related injuries occur every year to children in the United States," the Nationwide Children's Hospital noted. "Injuries can happen when kids are playing around the bunk bed or when they are sleeping. Therefore, parents should talk to their kids about how to safely use a bunk bed."