Twelve million cedar chests recalled after 14 child deaths

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers to immediately remove or replace latch and lock systems installed on recalled “Lane” and “Virginia Maid” brand cedar chests. The chests were recalled because the latches automatically lock when the lid is closed.

Between 1977 and 2015, 14 children suffocated to death after being trapped inside the chests. In 1996, The Lane Company recalled 12 million chests with the automatically locking latches. CPSC remains concerned that there are millions of recalled chests still unfixed in family’s homes, posing a danger to children.

United Furniture Industries, Inc. (UFI) acquired rights to the Lane brand name last year and is currently distributing free replacement latch and lock systems to owners of the recalled chests. Consumers who have not received and/or installed the replacement latch are urged to immediately remove the old latch and lock and contact UFI by phone or e-mail to order a free replacement. These latches must be uninstalled and replaced AS SOON AS POSSIBLE to prevent any further incidents of suffocation and death.

Consumers can contact UFI toll-free by calling 877-251-5010 and selecting option 4. If calling after hours, consumers can choose to leave a voice message or send an email to LaneRepair@ufifurniture.com. Consumers also have the option to immediately order the replacement latch and lock system online by clicking here.

Pennsylvania and New Jersey Personal Injury Attorneys

The Philadelphia personal injury and products liability attorneys at Messa & Associates are experienced at handling cases involving defective products. If you or a loved one have been the victim of any type of defective product, consider calling a personal injury attorney from Messa & Associates toll-free at 877-MessaLaw. You can also submit an inquiry online for a free case evaluation. Messa & Associates has been successful in earning clients considerable and fair compensation for injuries sustained through the negligence of others. Let the Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Messa & Associates earn you and your loved ones the compensation you deserve.