Britax recalls convertible seats over choking concerns

Kids Today Staff -- Kids Today, 11/6/2012 11:03:36 AM

Britax is voluntarily recalling some of its convertible car seats after reports that some children have bitten off small pieces of the harness chest pad, causing a choking hazard.

The affected seats are selected Boulevard 70-G3, Pavilion 70-G3 and Advocate 70-G3 convertible car seats in the United States and the Boulevard 65-G3, Pavilion 65-G3 and Advocate 65-G3 convertible car seats in Canada manufactured between June 1, 2012, and Aug. 31, 2012. Affected model numbers can be found here.

The convertible seats feature HUGS (Harness Ultra-Guard System) chest pads that are attached to the seat shell to ensure proper positioning and offer resistance to forward movement in a crash, Britax said. On the recalled seats, the harness system has pads made with a pliable, non-toxic material that is designed for increased performance and comfort. Britax has received reports that some infants and children have chewed and bitten the pads, breaking off small pieces that can lead to choking.

Britax is offering a repair kit that includes two HUGS pads made from a firmer material that will not break apart when bitten or chewed. Parents with recalled seats can contact Britax at 1 (888) 427-4829 or visit www.britaxusa.com/registration or www.britax.ca/registration.