As regular readers of this blog are likely aware, often products are recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission due to the risk of a consumer sustaining an injury before an actual injury occurs. There is good cause for this. The recall of a defective or dangerous product before it harms someone could prevent a serious injury or even a death from occurring in Pittsburgh and elsewhere in the country. Unfortunately, the recent recall of one product did not come soon enough.

Earlier this month the CPSC recalled "Banzai Splash" inflatable pool slides made by Manley Toys, Ltd. Use of the slide reportedly resulted in the death of a woman and the paralysis of a man. Another woman, from Pennsylvania, reportedly fractured her neck while using the product.

The problem with the slide is that it can deflate which in the cases of the death and paralysis caused users to hit their heads on the ground. The CPSC also indicated that due to instability the slide can flip, and it does not come with instructions and warnings that are adequate.

Sold throughout the nation between January 2005 and June 2009, they were available at both Toys R Us and Wal-Mart. In total, 21,000 inflatable slides are included in the recall.

The recall is timely as once warm weather rolls around, many people play in the water for fun and to cool down. Anyone who has purchased the inflatable slide is advised to discontinue its use. It can be returned to the place of purchase.

When someone is injured or dies as a result of a dangerous or defective product, it may be possible to take legal action against the manufacturer, distributor or retailer of the product. Though these cases can be complex both legally as well as emotionally, when successful, they often provide both the financial compensation and emotional closure needed to move forward with life.

Source: CNN, "Reported death, severe neck injuries prompt recall of pool slide," Todd Sperry, May 10, 2012