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Swimways Swim Trainers Recalled

September 10, 2003

Swimways Corp. is recalling about 3,400 "Sandy Claws" swim trainers. The nylon body strap on the swim trainer can detach or tear from the flotation device and 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 recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer is a red and yellow colored 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. Printed on the underside of the crab float are the words, "Swim Ways" and "CAUTION: This is not a lifesaving device. Do not leave child unattended while in use."

Specialty pool and toy stories nationwide and Internet retailers sold the flotation devices 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 should contact Swimways at (800) 889-7946 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

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