Online shopping platform Temu recalls several children’s hooded jumpers after a severe incident that saw an 8-year-old Queensland girl suffer horrific burns. These hooded jumpers, which resemble popular ‘Oodies,’ were sold on the platform between October 2023 and March 2024.
The garments in question lacked the mandatory fire hazard labels required for children’s nightwear in Australia and is a timely reminder to all parents to be cautious when buying clothing online, particularly items that children may wear near sources of heat like fireplaces, stoves, or even candles.
The recall affects the following products:
Hooded Jumper
If you purchased one of these hooded jumpers from Temu between October 2023 and March 2024, you should immediately stop using it. The affected designs include:
- Pink rainbow unicorn
- Purple rainbow unicorn
- Blue dinosaur
- Space planet
Temu has initiated a voluntary recall of these products and is offering full refunds.
The Reason for The Recall
On July 13, 2024, 8-year-old girl Daniella Jacobs-Herd wore one of these jumpers during a family gathering in Queensland. Sparks from a backyard fire ignited the jumper, causing third-degree burns on her face, chest, arm, and hand. The situation quickly escalated into a terrifying ordeal as Daniella’s family tried to put out the fire and get her to safety
Daniella endured 14 surgeries and is still undergoing treatment for her burns. Her story is a devastating example of what can happen when children’s clothing does not meet proper safety standards.
Go Fund Me Launched
In light of the tragic accident, Daniella Jacobs-Herd and her family have received overwhelming support from the community. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover the extensive medical costs for Daniella’s recovery, including her multiple surgeries and long-term care.
It’s likely she will require skin grafts and plastic surgery for the rest of her life.
At the time of writing, $8,183 has been raised to help Danielle and her family navigate a difficult future.
The Dangers of Flammable Clothing
The hooded jumpers recalled by Temu were not labelled with the mandatory fire hazard warnings. This is a big deal because children’s nightwear sold in Australia must meet specific safety standards, including the need for a fire hazard label. These labels tell parents and caregivers if a piece of clothing is more likely to catch fire and how quickly it could burn.
Without these labels, parents may unknowingly dress their children in clothing that could pose a serious fire risk. In Daniella’s case, the fabric of the jumper ignited easily, and the results were catastrophic.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) highlighted that clothing like this should always have clear fire hazard labels, especially when sold for children, who are more vulnerable in such incidents.
What Consumers Should Do
If you own one of these hooded jumpers, stop using it immediately and check to determine if it falls within the affected range. Consumers should contact Temu for a full refund or exchange. Ensure you follow the instructions for returning the item and ensure it’s no longer in your child’s wardrobe.
For more details and to process a return contact their customer service.
How to Contact Temu Australia:
Tap the headphones icon on your app’s top right or go to Temu Support Centre.
Who To Talk To
For any concerns regarding the investigation, you can contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Stay informed and prioritise safety by checking for updates on product recalls from Product Safety Australia or the ACCC to protect your family from unsafe products.
How to Keep Your Children Safe From Flammable Clothing
This incident shows how important it is to be aware of fire safety when buying clothes for your children. Here are a few tips to help keep your children safe:
- Check the Labels: Always look for fire hazard labels on children’s nightwear. In Australia, clothing should be marked with whether it’s “Low Fire Danger” or “High Fire Danger.” This can give you an idea of how the clothing might react near an open flame.
- Choose Safer Fabrics: Cotton, wool, and other natural fibres tend to be safer than synthetic fabrics like polyester, which can melt and stick to the skin when burned. Look for items made from these materials if you’re concerned about fire risk.
- Supervise Around Heat: Always supervise children when they’re near fire hazards, whether it’s a campfire, candles, or even the kitchen stove. If they’re wearing loose or long clothing like an ‘Oodie,’ make sure they stay well away from open flames.
- Educate Your Kids: Teach your children about the dangers of fire and what to do if their clothing catches on fire. “Stop, Drop, and Roll” is a critical safety tip that could save their life.
What Temu Is Doing Now
After the recall, Temu has taken steps to contact customers who purchased the jumpers and ensure that the products are returned. They have also promised to review their processes to ensure that future clothing sold through their platform meets all Australian safety standards.
Never miss a product recall again
At Mum Central, we know how important it is to stay on top of product health and safety concerns. This is why we try to alert our readers when a product fails to comply with safety standards.
Please have a read through our product safety recalls for other products that have recently been recalled, including bikes, cots, bassinets, prams and more.
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