Potential Choking Hazard Spurs 180,000 Munchkin Pacifiers Recall; What Parents Must Know

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall on 180,000 pacifiers for potential choking hazard. The common baby item, which is sold with a clip set, is from Munchkin, Inc. The product was available at stores like Wal-Mart, Target and Babies R Us, since March 2014.

The recall summary from the Consumer Product Safety Commission indicated that the Munchkin pacifiers came in five styles and the clips were supposed to ensure that the pacifier does not get lost or drop on the floor. The clips were also supposed to latch properly, but Munchkin admitted to its poor quality. "Epoxy coating on the clip can weaken in certain environmental conditions and detach posing a choking hazard to small children," Munchkin said in a statement posted on the official site.

The CPSC received 10 reports from consumers about the detaching clips. Fortunately, none has led to injuries or fatalities among the babies. Parents who have bought the Munchkin pacifiers covering the period of March 2014 to March 2016 at stores like Wal-Mart, Target, Babies R Us and online at Amazon, are asked to stop using these for their babies. Instead, they can request for a replacement or a refund.

Parents should look into the following model numbers on the pacifiers label to see if they are eligible for replacement or refund: MKFE0391, MKFE0392, MKFE0393. The Munchkin pacifiers were made in China and sold for $11 to $15 at U.S. stores. Learn more about the refund or replacement process via Munchkin.

Baby first aid for choking- what you need to know.. pic.twitter.com/QKwkEBAbiL

— Physiofusion (@DubPhysiofusion) March 31, 2014

The recall comes as choking hazard in babies and young children remain the leading cause of injuries. Parents are asked to take time to read the warning labels or carefully examine the baby's items before giving these. They are also encouraged to learn CPR in case an accident happens. Watch the video below for the demonstration: