Big Lots Recalls Metal Futon Bunk Beds After Child Entrapment Death

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Ohio-based company Big Lots have instated the recall of approximately 30,000 metal futon bunk beds due to an entrapment hazard. One child has already been killed as a result of this defect.

Children can become entrapped if behind the futon or in the bunk bed ladder area when the futon, with its metal frame, is lowered into the flat position. This occurred to a three-year-old boy in Iowa, who became entrapped at the head and neck in the bunk bed in March 2010. The heavy metal frame prevented the child from escaping, as well as breathing. Once the child was discovered and freed from the bed, CPR was performed and he was transported to the hospital, where he died as a result of compression asphyxiation.Furthermore, the space between the futon mattress and the last rung on the ladder is excessively narrow, allowing a child’s body to pass through, but not the head. This poses a potential neck and head entrapment hazard.

The affected metal futon bunk beds, which have a twin-sized upper bunk and a convertible futon bed bottom bunk, have the model number BFB1008, which can be found on the upper bunk support rail label. They were sold nationwide, exclusively through Big Lots stores, from January 2009 through April 2010 at a price of approximately $200.

In order to prevent a child defective product accident in San Jose and across the U.S., consumers should stop using the bunk beds immediately and contact Big Lots for a no-cost at-home repair kit, which includes new ladders and other necessary parts. For more information, consumers may call the Big Lots toll-free number at 866-244-5687, or email Big Lots at talk2us@biglots.com. The company’s website, www.biglots.com also provides additional information.

Product manufacturers, especially child product manufacturers, have a duty to produce safe products. If negligent or defective manufacturing causes personal injury or death to a child or adult, the responsible company may be held liable for the financial and emotional losses and damages that result. At Caputo & Van Der Walde, our dedicated defective product attorneys in San Jose can help you and your family seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation at (800) 900-0863.