Warning

1995-76
November 15, 1995

Warning against Certain Mayee Pacifiers

OTTAWA - Health Canada today warned Canadian consumers that two models of Mayee pacifiers fail to meet required mechanical or structural tests and could be dangerous to small children.

One model consists of a transparent yellow, one-piece orthodontic-shaped pacifier packaged in a blister card. The second model is a four-piece pacifier consisting of a hinged handle and a cherry-shaped nipple secured to a guard by a plug. These are packaged in individual blister cards which appear on display cards containing one dozen units. Packaging for both products indicate that they originate in Hong Kong. Mayee pacifiers are sold primarily through "dollar store" type retailers.

The one-piece unit may become totally lodged in a child's throat, whereas the parts of the second model may come apart, resulting in a risk of suffocation. Parents and caregivers are urged to discard these models immediately.

The Health Protection Branch of Health Canada is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall being undertaken voluntarily by a number of importers across Canada.

Information:
Bonnie Fox-McIntyre/Monique Renaud-Gagné
Health Canada
(613) 957-1588

Pacifiers: Safety Reminders

Health Canada reminds parents and caregivers to take the following precautions if a child uses a pacifier:

• Never tie a pacifier around the child's neck. Children can strangle when cords are tied around their necks.
• Examine the pacifier often: give a strong tug on the nipple to make sure it is firmly attached.
• Throw a pacifier away immediately if the nipple changes colour or texture, or becomes sticky, cracked or torn.
• Pacifiers should be replaced after two months of use, regardless of whether wear and tear is visible to the naked eye.
• Keep a closer eye on the pacifier if the child is on medication - the child's saliva could degrade the rubber of the nipple.