The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA) received an immediate release from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which announced the recall of Maclaren strollers. An estimated amount of one million units have been voluntarily recalled. Maclaren strollers are distributed by Maclaren USA Inc., of South Norwalk, Connecticut.

Consumers should immediately stop using this product and contact Maclaren USA to receive a free repair kit. Recall of this product is due to the amputation and laceration hazard that the stroller’s hinge mechanism poses when the consumer is unfolding and opening the stroller. Maclaren has received 15 reports of children placing their finger in the strollers hinge mechanism, resulting in 12 reports of fingertip amputations in the United States.

“Consumers should note that the recall involves all Maclaren single and double umbrella strollers. For additional information, consumers can contact Maclaren USA toll free at (877) 688-2326 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or visit their Web site at www.maclaren.us/recall,” said Commissioner Biggs.

The strollers were sold at Babies “R” Us, Target and other baby product and mass merchandise retailers nationwide from 1999 through November 2009 at a cost of $100 to $360. “Although these named stores do not exist in the Virgin Islands, the product could have been purchased from Puerto Rico, the U.S. Mainland, or ordered via one of the stores’ Web sites. Consumers who have stroller aged children should check for the following models which have all been affected by the recall: Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller,” said Commissioner Biggs.

The Department will continue to monitor national recalls and continue to issue announcements as part of its mission of Assisting, Educating and Protecting Consumers. Consumers can visit the DLCA Web site and use its links tab to further monitor food, product and safety recalls. (www.dlca.vi.gov)