Hobby Lobby Recall: Stop Using These Stools That Pose Fall, Injury Risks

Oklahoma-based Hobby Lobby is recalling thousands of wooden stools because they may pose fall and injury hazards. The affected products were sold nationwide.

The recall affects the White Wood Stool, which has white squared-off legs and a brown, curved seat, the recall alert posted on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) noted. The problem with the product is that it can break while being used, therefore posing "fall and injury hazards."

"Hobby Lobby has received seven reports of the stool breaking while in use, including six incidents resulting in minor injuries," the recall alert noted.

About 14,000 units of the stool are affected by the recall. They are approximately 24 inches tall and were sold at Hobby Lobby stores nationwide for $80 from June to July. Those who may have bought the affected product are being advised to stop using the unit and return it to a Hobby Lobby store instead to receive a full refund.

A photo of the recalled product is available on the CPSC website. Those who have questions about the recall may contact the company at 800-326-7931.

Stool Safety

Apart from choosing a style that fits one's preferences, there are a few other things to consider when choosing home items like stools. One may check whether it is adjustable or matches the height of their counter and if it has a part where one can rest their feet. The material of the stool itself and whether it offers back support are also things a person can consider when deciding on stools.

For those who have kids, supervising the children when they are sitting on the stool is key to keeping them safe and choosing ones that have armrests and backrests may also provide more support and reduce the fall hazards. It is important to "never" allow young children to stand on the stool as this increases the risk of the chair toppling over. Parents are advised to also keep kids from climbing the stool on their own as it may end up falling on top of them.

Placing anti-tip devices may also reduce the chances of the stool tipping over. One may also put them close to the wall or away when they're not being used.