Choking Hazard Prompts Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. To Recall Bunny On A Stick

PRODUCT: 4,700 "Bunny on a Stick" items sold from February 1 to April 15, 1992 by Wal-Mart stores.

PROBLEM: The item failed the CPSC rattle test because the handle may cause a small child to choke and/or suffocate. In addition, the wooden balls attached to the item came off during testing and also present a choking hazard.

WHAT TO DO: Return to place of purchase for a refund.

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. of Bentonville, Arkansas is voluntarily recalling approximately 4,700 "Bunny On A Stick" Easter rattles, item number 100660. The item failed the CPSC rattle test because the four-inch long by half-inch diameter wooden handle represents a choking hazard. In addition, two one-half inch diameter wooden balls attached to the item came off during testing, also presenting a choking hazard.

The item is constructed of wood and consists of a handle attached to a body with a bunny head and two balls representing its paws. The balls strike the hollow bunny head producing a sound when the item is shaken. The item is painted in pastel colors and was imported from Taiwan by Wal-Mart.

Bunny On A Stick items, were sold nationwide from February 1, 1992 to April 15, 1992, for approximately $2.00 each.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. reported to CPSC that they received a report of a child who nearly choked on one of the small wooden balls. Neither CPSC nor the company is aware of any other safety complaints or injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

Consumers are urged to take the Bunny On A Stick item away from young children immediately and return it to the store where purchased for a refund. Consumers with questions about this recall may contact the company at 1-501-273-4314.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is announcing this recall as part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The Commission's objective is to reduce the estimated 28.5 million injuries and 21,600 deaths associated each year with the 15,000 different types of consumer products under CPSC's jurisdiction.