CPSC recall 07-164, announced April 19, 2007, covers Mega Brands America Magnetix Magnetic Building Sets. If a child swallows more than one tiny powerful magnet detached from the plastic building pieces or one such magnet and a metallic object, the objects can attract to each other inside the intestines and cause perforations and/or blockage, which can be fatal, if not treated immediately. The notice cites 1,500 incident reports, 27 injuries and 1 death. Consumers should stop using the recalled magnetic sets immediately and contact Mega Brands for a comparable replacement toy. Recall contact: call (800) 779-7122, or go to www.megabrands.com.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.
The recall includes all sets, except newer Magnetix sets sold since March 31, 2006, that are age-labeled 6+ and sets that contain the following caution label: "CAUTION: Do not ingest or inhale magnets.
Which products are included?
These magnetic building sets contain up to 250 plastic building pieces and 1/2-inch diameter steel balls. The building pieces include 1 1/2-inch squares, 1-inch triangles, cylinder rods, flexors, connectors, x-tenders, and curves and come in an assortment of colors such as metallic, primary, translucent, and glow in the dark. The recall includes all sets, except newer Magnetix sets sold since March 31, 2006, that are age-labeled 6+ and sets that contain the following caution label: "CAUTION: Do not ingest or inhale magnets. Attraction of magnets in the body may cause serious injury and require immediate medical care."
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
If a child swallows more than one tiny powerful magnet detached from the plastic building pieces or one such magnet and a metallic object, the objects can attract to each other inside the intestines and cause perforations and/or blockage, which can be fatal, if not treated immediately.
Incidents and injuries
To date, CPSC and Mega Brands are aware of one death, one aspiration and 27 intestinal injuries. Emergency surgical intervention was needed in all but one case. At least 1,500 incidents of magnets separating from the building pieces have been reported. Although the hazard was initially thought to be a problem primarily for children younger than six, it has since been learned that at least ten injuries involved children between the ages of 6 and 11 years old.
Official remedy
Consumers should stop using the recalled magnetic sets immediately and contact Mega Brands for a comparable replacement toy.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Mega Brands America
- Product type
- Toys & play sets
- Recall number
- 07-164
- Units
- In excess of 4 million
- Manufactured in
- China
- Sold at / sales period
- Mass merchants and other toy and arts and crafts stores nationwide for between $20 and $60, depending on the size of the set.
- Importer
- Mega Brands America, Inc.
Magnetix Magnetic Building Sets
CPSC product type: Toy Play Sets/Activity Sets
Recall contact information
Consumers can contact Mega Brands at (800) 779-7122 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.megabrands.com
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
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Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
