CPSC Recall in 2003: CPSC, Swimways Corp. Announce Recall of Swim Trainers

Updated on January 18, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 2003.

Data Source: CPSC.

Recall Number: 03-179

Date: September 09, 2003

Product Name: "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainers

Recall Description:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Swimways Corp., of Virginia Beach, Va., is voluntarily recalling 3,400 "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainers. The nylon body strap on the swim trainer can detach or tear from the flotation device and release a child into water, posing a serious drowning hazard to young children.Name of product: "Sandy Claws" Swim TrainersUnits: About 3,400Manufacturer: Swimways Corp., of Virginia Beach, Va.Hazard: The nylon body strap on the swim trainer can detach or tear from the flotation device and release a child into water, posing a serious drowning hazard to young children.Incidents/Injuries: There have been seven reports of the body straps detaching and two reports of the seams splitting, though no injuries have been reported.Description: The recalled "Sandy Claws" Swim Trainer is a red and yellow colored fabric crab with eight stuffed legs and two eyes covering a styrofoam buoyancy float. Black straps are attached to the side seams to fasten around a child. Printed on the underside of the crab float are the words, "Swim Ways" and "CAUTION: This is not a lifesaving device. Do not leave child unattended while in use."Sold at: Specialty pool and toy stores nationwide and Internet retailers sold the flotation devices from January 2003 through July 2003 for about $12.Manufactured in: ChinaRemedy: Consumers should stop using the swim trainers immediately and return them to the company for a full refund. Swimways will provide consumers with a self-addressed envelope to return the product.Consumer Contact: Consumers should contact Swimways at (800) 889-7946 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the company's website at www.swimways.com.

Hazard Description:

The nylon body strap on the swim trainer can detach or tear from the flotation device and release a child into water, posing a serious drowning hazard to young children.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

Refund

Units: About 3,400

Incidents:

There have been seven reports of the body straps detaching and two reports of the seams splitting, though no injuries have been reported.

Sold At:

Specialty pool and toy stores nationwide and Internet retailers sold the flotation devices from January 2003 through July 2003 for about $12.

Manufactured In:

China