Skip to content

CPSC, Swimways Corp. Announce Recall of Swim Trainers

U.S. CPSCDrowningSep 10, 2003
Recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer
Recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer
Child using recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer
Child using recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer

Photos from the official notice: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission · image rights

Hazard

The nylon body strap on the swim trainer can detach or tear from the flotation device and release a child into water, posing a serious drowning hazard to young children.

Remedy

Consumers should stop using the swim trainers immediately and return them to the company for a full refund. Swimways will provide consumers with a self-addressed envelope to return the product.

Incidents & injuries

There have been seven reports of the body straps detaching and two reports of the seams splitting, though no injuries have been reported.

Product description

The recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer is a red-and-yellow-colored fabric crab with eight stuffed legs and two eyes covering a styrofoam buoyancy float. Black straps are attached to the side seams to fasten around a child. Printed on the underside of the crab float are the words, "Swim Ways" and "CAUTION: This is not a lifesaving device. Do not leave child unattended while in use."

Sold on

Specialty pool and toy stores nationwide and Internet retailers sold the flotation devices, from January 2003 through July 2003, for about $12.

Contact the company

Consumers should contact Swimways at (800) 889-7946 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the company's website at www.swimways.com

What should I do?

Stop using the product and follow the remedy below. Contact the company for a refund, repair or replacement — recall remedies are free.

More from this brand

See all →

Recent alerts in this category

See all →