Playpens recalled because they can collapse and trap children

<br>WASHINGTON (AP) _ An Indiana company is recalling about 102,000 Cosco brand playpens after receiving reports that hundreds had mechanical problems and one baby was killed when his playpen collapsed.

Wednesday, October 10th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

WASHINGTON (AP) _ An Indiana company is recalling about 102,000 Cosco brand playpens after receiving reports that hundreds had mechanical problems and one baby was killed when his playpen collapsed.

Dorel Juvenile Group, of Columbus, Ind., has received 421 reports of the playpen rails not locking or collapsing, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said Wednesday. Plastic tabs that lock the rails into the corners can break or loosen over time.

In June, an 11-month-old baby in Elyria, Ohio, died when his chest was caught in the V-shape created by the collapsed sides of his playpen, the agency said.

The recalled Cosco ``Zip n Go,'' ``Okie Dokie,'' and ``Carters'' playpens were manufactured between May 1995 and December 1997. Only model numbers 05-361, 05-362, 05-363 and 05-364 are included in the recall.

The model numbers are located on the playpen's bottom, on the metal tubular frame near one of the corners. The label reads in part, ``MANUFACTURED IN CHINA FOR COSCO INC.''

The 28-inch by 40-inch playpens have four mesh sides on a folding metal frame. The padded floorboard forms a carrying case for the playpen.

Stores nationwide sold the ``Zip n Go'' and ``Carters'' playpens. JC Penney stores nationwide sold the ``Okie Dokie'' brand playpens exclusively. The playpens were sold from May 1995 through December 1999 for between $40 and $70.

The safety commission said consumers should stop using the playpens. For a a refund or replacement, consumers can call Dorel Juvenile Group toll-free at 1-800-314-9327 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday.