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December – Safe Toys and Gifts Month

As the holiday season approaches and children get excited over the newest action figures, games, and electronics, we need to keep in mind that safety comes first for our children.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report of “Toy-Related Deaths and Injuries Calendar Year 2017”, over 250,000 children in 2017 were treated in Emergency Rooms across the country due to toy-related injuries. [1] 

Toy-related injuries have been a problem in our country, but over the last several years, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has worked diligently to improve safety standards for toys in our country.  The CPSC applies strong safety standards, inspects toys entering our country, and urges manufacturers overseas to improve the safety and quality of their products.  Since hundreds of millions of dollars in games and toys arrive in North America each year, the CPSC also works with Canada and Mexico to help strengthen the larger North American marketplace with safe, quality toys.

But even with strong toy safety standards, it’s important for parents of young children to inspect new toys before allowing children to play with them.  Next are a few essential safety tips for parents with young kids:

• Check age and skill level.  Select toys that are appropriate for the age and skill level of each child.  Stay away from toys that include ropes, strings, or heating elements.  When purchasing art supplies, always seek out “non-toxic” products.
• Assess toys.  Inspect toys for the “ATSM” sticker that indicates the toy meets the requirements of the American Society for Testing and Materials Standards.  In addition, assess toys for sharp edges, small pieces, or broken parts prior to purchasing.  Be aware of the infamous lead paint problems which were used in many products including toys.  Click here to visit the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website for more information on lead used in paint.
• Dispose of all wrapping.  Once a gift is opened, dispose of wrapping paper, plastic wrapping, bows, and ribbons as young children can put these items in their mouths.
• Be especially careful with the following items around children:
  • Magnets.  Keep magnets away from children because they can be very dangerous if swallowed.
  • Balls and balloons.  Do not permit toys with small parts, tiny balls, or balloons around children under four, as these may pose a choking hazard.
  • Batteries and charging accessories.  Since batteries, chargers, and adapters can cause hazards in the hands – and mouths – of young children, adults should always supervise these types of activities.
  • Riding toys.  Riding toys such as skateboards should be used only when wearing helmets.

Starting this holiday season, take the extra time to inspect, be cautious, and observe your child as he or she plays with new toys.  Happy holidays!

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[1] United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report of “Toy-Related Deaths and Injuries Calendar Year 2017”  https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/Toy_Report_2018.pdf?qIO1DVoYhV6lzYgcLa04K28yF28BOgdS