Philips Lifeline Issues Safety Alert for Lifeline Pendant Personal Help Buttons
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today cautioned users of personal
emergency response buttons worn around the neck of a potential choking hazard associated with this product. There
are more than 750,000 users of these devices in the United States and Canada. By pushing the "help" button on the
device when in distress, users can call for emergency assistance to their home. According to Philips Lifeline, the device
is used primarily by seniors living independently, who feel they are at risk for falls or other medical emergencies. The
Lifeline pendant button is intentionally designed to not break away when tugged, which prevents the button from
accidentally falling off. However, because it does not break away, there is a risk of choking, including the possibility of
serious injury or death. Risks are greater for those with mobility limitations or for those who use wheelchairs, walkers,
beds with guard rails, or other objects that could entangle with a neck cord. Read
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