The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·03179·Announced 2003-09-10

Swimways Recalls Sandy Claws Swim Trainers Due to Drowning Hazard

Swimways Corp. is recalling Sandy Claws Swim Trainers because the body strap can detach, posing a drowning risk to young children.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (drowning hazard) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the High severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Swimways Corp. of Virginia Beach, Va., is recalling approximately 3,400 Sandy Claws Swim Trainers. The recalled product is a red-and-yellow 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. The underside of the float is printed with the words "Swim Ways" and "CAUTION: This is not a lifesaving device. Do not leave child unattended while in use."

The recall was issued because the nylon body strap on the swim trainer can detach or tear from the flotation device. This failure can release a child into the water, posing a serious drowning hazard to young children. There have been seven reports of the body straps detaching and two reports of the seams splitting, though no injuries have been reported.

The swim trainers were sold at specialty pool and toy stores nationwide and through Internet retailers from January 2003 through July 2003 for about $12. 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. Consumers can 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.

The recalled product

Product
Sandy Claws Swim Trainers
Manufacturer
Swimways Corp., of Virginia Beach, Va.
Category
Consumer Product — Swimming Pool Items
Hazard
Affected units
3,400

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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Same hazard · drowning

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