With Christmas around the corner parents should watch for unsafe toys can make their way under the tree and into the hands of children.
Being aware of the safety hazards is the best way to prevent potential risks and accidents.
Product Safety Officer, Dana Mikkelsen, with the Consumer Product Safety program at Health Canada explained some things to look for when you are purchasing toys this holiday season.
Purchasing age-appropriate gifts is key, as toys for older children contain small parts that could become a choking hazard for young children.
“Especially children under 3 because that age group frequently puts objects in their mouth.”
Sturdy well-made toys are also a good choice as they are less likely to have smaller pieces break off that could create a sharp edge and potentially cut a child.
Purchasing toys with manufacturer or importer contact information is also a good idea.
If there is a safety concern with the toy, the consumer and Health Canada are then able to follow up with the manufacturer, said Mikkelsen.
When it comes to plush toys those can be flammable, and it is important to keep them away from heat sources like candles, fireplaces, and space heaters.
Check the eyes and nose on plush or stuffed toys to ensure they are securely attached as they could create a choking hazard for the child.
Batteries are another aspect of toy safety to take into consideration.
“We recommend making sure the battery compartment is secure so that the batteries remain in the product, and not accessible to a child.”
Toys that feature a light-up component and other electronic toys may contain button batteries.
“Once you have purchased a battery-operated toy, check it periodically, said Mikkelsen, "Make sure it’s in good shape and the batteries are not leaking.”
Do not let a child take the battery-operated toys to bed as there is a chance the battery could leak battery acid or overheat causing injury.
Small magnets or rare earth magnets can be fatal. These magnets are often found in desk toys aimed at adults such as fidget spinners, and stress relief toys.
These magnets can sometimes be found in kids' jewelry, action figures or board games.
If more than one of these small magnets is swallowed, they attract to each other in the intestinal tract, which can cause an intestinal tract block, and cause death or require emergency surgery.
By being aware of the magnets in toys parents will be able to remove them and discard of them, or if they are loose to remove them from the toy.
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