It’s the season of gift giving, and according to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), one important key to an enjoyable holiday is to be mindful of the “ABCs” of toy safety: Awareness Benefits Consumers.
Consumers can increase their awareness of gift safety issues by shopping according to CPSC’s Top Safe Shopping Tips this year:
- “Ride-on Toys – Riding toys, skateboards and in-line skates go fast and falls could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should be sized to fit.
- Small Parts – For children younger than age three, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking.
- Magnets – For children under age six, avoid building sets with small magnets. If magnets or pieces with magnets are swallowed, serious injuries and/or death can occur.
- Projectile Toys – Projectile toys such as air rockets, darts and sling shots are for older children. Improper use of these toys can result in serious eye injuries.
- Chargers and Adapters – Charging batteries should be supervised by adults. Chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards to children.
To choose appropriate toys for children:
- Be a label reader. Look for toy labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide.
- Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child. Look for sturdy construction, such as tightly-secured eyes, noses and other potential small parts.
- For all children under 8, avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.
Once the gifts are open:
- Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys before they become dangerous play things.
- Keep toys appropriate for older children away from younger siblings or neighbors.
- Pay attention to instructions and warnings on battery chargers. Some chargers lack any device to prevent overcharging.”
Previously on the DC Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:
- One non-profit organization’s “Top 10” list of most dangerous toys
- Video game consoles: How to keep the popular gifts from overheating
For information about your legal rights, please click here or call the law firm of Regan Zambri & Long, PLLC at (202) 753-4272.