CPSC, Evenflo Announce Recall of Happy Camper Portable Play Yards

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Evenflo Company Inc., of Piqua, Ohio, is offering free hinge cover kits to all 1.2 million owners of its portable play yards sold under the Happy Camper, Happy Cabana and Kiddie Camper model names. If the hinges on the product are not fully rotated, the product can collapse, possibly trapping the child in the "V" formed by the folded top rails. Additionally, if leaned or sat upon, the rotating plastic hinges in the middle of the folding top rails can crack or break, presenting a sharp edge or possibly allowing the child to escape.

Evenflo and CPSC are aware of three deaths involving the play yards. In two incidents, the hinges collapsed and entrapped the child and in one incident an infant was placed into a broken play yard. Evenflo has received 107 reports of children receiving cuts and bruises from broken hinges.

The hinge covers fit over the hinges of the play yards only when the hinges are fully rotated into place, assuring that the play yard is properly set up. The hinge covers also provide additional reinforcement to the sides of the play yard. They snap on easily but firmly and can be moved by an adult to allow normal folding.

Evenflo urges consumers to fully rotate the hinges, to inspect the hinges regularly for signs of cracking or breaking and to avoid leaning or sitting on the top rails. Evenflo is continuing its practice of replacing play yards with cracked or broken side rails. Evenflo has replaced approximately 6,000 Happy Camper line portable play yards for hinge-related problems over the last 8 years.

The play yards subject to this action are the Happy Camper and Happy Cabana models, which are rectangular-shaped, and the Kiddie Camper model, which is square-shaped. "Evenflo" and the model name of the play yard are printed on the top side rail of each play yard. The play yards come in a variety of colors and fabrics. Each play yard folds compactly and comes with a carrying bag and mattress.

Major department, discount and juvenile products stores nationwide have sold these Evenflo play yards since January 1990 for about $60 to $130.

All consumers who own a Happy Camper, Happy Cabana or Kiddie Camper should call Evenflo toll free at 1-800-447-9178 to receive the free hinge covers and should be sure to fully rotate the top rail hinges when setting up the play yard. Consumers who own one of these play yards with cracked or broken hinges should stop using it immediately and call Evenflo to obtain a replacement play yard. Consumers may also write to Evenflo Company Inc., 1801 Commerce Drive, Piqua, OH 45356.