On November 21, 2012, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that Hunter Douglas Fabrication Co issued recalls to repair custom cellular and pleated window coverings.  The coverings may present a strangulation hazard to small children, and consumers should stop using these products immediately.  

The CPSC reports that about 4,400 shades are affected by the recall.  The window coverings were manufactured in West Sacramento, California and sold by the company nationwide from January 2011 to August 2012.  Products varied in price, but they started at $240.  

The recall is for custom and pleated window coverings with a breakaway cord stop.  These products come in various color patterns.  The specific products are listed below:

•    Standard cordlock Duette and Applause honeycomb shades
•    Standard cordlock Hunter Douglas pleated shades
•    Hunter Douglas Brilliance Privacy View pleated shades
•    Standard cordlock Duette and Applause Duolite shades

Look for the Hunter Douglas logo on the tassels or the single cord that falls from the breakaway cord stop.  

If the cords were tied in a single knot inside the breakaway cord stop, the cord won’t function properly and won’t break away.  If a child becomes entangled in the cord loop, the cord may not break away and the child could strangle.  

Consumers need to check for a single knot inside the breakaway cord stop.  The cord stop is the plastic piece that attaches the two ends of the cord to the blind.  If you find a knot in the cord stop, you need to stop using the product immediately and call Hunter Douglas for a free repair kit and instructions on untying the knot.  

You can call Hunter Douglas at (800) 997-2389 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET on Monday through Friday.  You can also find more information on the company’s website.  

Source: Consumer Product Safety Commission