Parents warned to beware of substandard baby strollers on sale in Hong Kong
Even expensive models may pose hazards, watchdog's study finds
Some baby strollers on sale in Hong Kong risk folding up suddenly or trapping tiny fingers or toes, safety tests by the consumer watchdog have shown.
The Consumer Council tested 19 models, priced at between HK$1,490 and HK$14,860. It found that seven - including one selling for almost HK$12,000 - did not meet European Union safety standards, and some also failed to meet US standards. Yet the cheapest model passed the tests and won a recommendation from the council.
"Parents usually buy the most expensive ones for their children, but expensive ones may not be the best," Professor Michael Hui King-man, chairman of the council's publicity and community relations committee, said yesterday.
Some strollers had gaps or holes in which babies' extremities could be caught.
Others had faulty safety locks leaving the stroller at risk of folding suddenly and trapping the infant inside, according to the report, which is published in the latest issue of the council's magazine.
Baby strollers sold in Hong Kong must meet safety standards set by either the EU, the US or the Australian and New Zealand governments. Hui said it would be better if Hong Kong could set up its own regulations taking reference from the three standards.
