Toy SafetyBillions
of toys to amuse children of all ages are sold each year in the US.
Unfortunately, toys also are associated with thousands of injuries each
year, some of which result in death. Children under age 3 are
especially at risk for injury from toys. Injuries can range from falling,
choking, strangulation, burning, drowning, and even poisoning. However,
the leading cause of toy-related death is choking, usually on latex
balloons.
Injury often results when a toy is misused or used by children who are
too young for that particular toy. An example is a toy with small parts,
designed for older children, which can cause choking when those small
parts are ingested by a curious toddler.
Knowing what dangers are associated with certain toys and age groups
can help you better protect your child from toy injuries. When selecting
toys for your child, consider the following recommendations:
- Choose toys that are age-appropriate and meet your child's skill
level and interest (read the toy's labeling).
- Avoid using latex balloons as much as possible and use mylar
balloons instead.
- Make sure toys are used in safe environments, such as keeping a
riding toy away from stairs.
- Be involved in your child's play.
- Store toys intended for older children separately from toys used by
younger children.
- Use a small parts tester to determine which small toys or parts are
a choking hazard to children under age 3. A small parts tester allows
for small objects to be inserted - if the object fits, it is a choking
hazard.
- Check toys regularly for damage and other hazards.
- Stay up-to-date on toy recalls through the
US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Supervising your child's play, in addition to following the
recommendations made by toy manufactures could save lives. Listed in the
directory below is additional information related to toy safety.
If you cannot find the information in which you are interested, please
visit the Safety and Injury Prevention Online
Resources page in this Web site for an Internet/World Wide Web address
that may contain additional information on that topic.
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