Tips for Toy Safety

Sunday January 30, 2011 • 3 Comments 

Toys are the treasures of childhood, as long as they’re chosen with care. But are toys really hazardous?

How to tell if toys are safe? Keep your child’s safety your top priority by following these tips on toy safety:

  1. Check the toys packaging for the manufacturer’s recommended age before purchasing.
  2. Check all electronic toys to see if they are UL approved. The label should indicate that Underwriter Laboratories approved it.
  3. Check for recalls online at www.recalls.gov or www.cpsc.gov
  4. Avoid toys with small and removable parts which can pose a chocking hazard. Any toy that can fit in an empty toilet paper roll is too small for a child younger than 3 years. Make sure that any item – or any removable part of an item – is no less than 11/4 inches in any dimension so that it cannot be swallowed or produce gagging.
  5. Inspect toys with batteries to make sure they are not exposed or leaking.
  6. Inspect toys on a regular basis to see if any pieces are broken. An item that passes all safety checks at the time of purchase can immediately become a serious hazard as soon as it is broken, chipped, or otherwise damaged.
  7. Ensure all crayons, paints and markers are non toxic.
  8. Stuffed toys should be labeled “nonflammable,” “flame resistant,” or “flame retardant,” as well as “washable.”