Homebase recalls blind after child safety fears

The company has stressed that there have been no incidents reported, but the pull cord breakaways on the blinds are too strongly locked, which could pose a risk of strangulation to young children as the force required to break the safety device may be too great.

As a precautionary measure, Homebase advises customers to call for a free replacement breakaway device and instructions if they have a product purchased after June 1 2014.

Alternatively customers can return the blind to their nearest Homebase store for a full refund - no proof of purchase is necessary. There are four Homebase stores in Northumberland -Alnwick, Berwick, Blyth and Hexham.

A Homebase spokesperson said: “The safety of products sold through Homebase is of paramount importance to us and we are working closely with Trading Standards.

“We are offering customers a replacement breakaway device with instructions on how to fit the device correctly, which should only take a few minutes. Customers have also been advised to stop using the blind or ensure that children are kept clear of the blind until they have fitted the replacement device.

“Replacement breakaway devices can be ordered free of charge by visiting our Spares Website (http://clickspares.co.uk/blind), where instructions on how to fit the new device are available to download. Homebase Customer Service Teams will also be happy to assist with any additional queries.”

Homebase UK customers can call 0345 077 8888.

* The blinds affected are: Homebase Article Number Description

273756 HB Brown Bamboo Roll Up Blind 60cm

273757 HB Brown Bamboo Roll Up Blind 90cm

273759 HB Brown Bamboo Roll Up Blind 120cm

273760 HB Brown Bamboo Roll Up Blind 180cm

273762 HB Natural Bamboo Roll Up Blind 60cm

273763 HB Natural Bamboo Roll Up Blind 90cm

273764 HB Natural Bamboo Roll Up Blind 120cm

273765 HB Natural Bamboo Roll Up Blind 180cm