Related Experiment Videos
Deaths associated with infant carriers--United States, 1986-1991
Insights
Infant carriers (ICs) pose injury risks to young children. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission documented 26 fatalities linked to infant carrier injuries between 1986 and 1991.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric safety
- Consumer product safety
- Injury epidemiology
Background:
- Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability for U.S. children.
- Infants and young children face risks from unattended environments and consumer products.
- Products designed for infants, such as infant carriers (ICs), are associated with injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inform public health and healthcare providers about potential risks associated with infant carrier (IC) use.
- To summarize epidemiologic information regarding IC-related injuries and fatalities.
- To raise awareness about consumer product safety for infants.
Main Methods:
- Review of data reported to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
- Analysis of fatalities associated with infant carrier (IC) related injuries.
- Epidemiologic summary of incidents from January 1986 to October 1991.
Main Results:
- The CPSC received reports of 26 fatalities associated with infant carrier (IC) related injuries.
- Data covers incidents occurring between January 1986 and October 1991.
- Identified specific consumer products linked to infant injuries.
Conclusions:
- Infant carriers (ICs) present significant safety risks.
- Awareness of IC-related injury risks is crucial for public health.
- Continued monitoring and reporting of consumer product-related injuries are necessary.
Abstract:
In the United States, injuries are the leading cause of death and disability among children aged 1-4 years and the sixth leading cause of death and disability among infants aged less than 1 year. Small children and infants can be injured when left unattended, even in environments that appear safe. Often such injuries and deaths are associated with use of consumer products, including products designed for children aged less than 1 year (i.e., strollers, walkers, car seats, and infant carriers [ICs]). From January 1986 through October 1991, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) received reports of 26 fatalities associated with IC-related injuries. To inform public health and health-care providers about potential risks associated with use of ICs, CDC summarized epidemiologic information and related details regarding these incidents.