The Latest on Toy-Related Injuries and Holiday Safety Tips
During the holiday season, many people purchase toys for their children or young loved ones. But let’s not forget to play it safe with those toys and to keep the little ones happy and out of harm’s way.
A recent report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) emphasizes the importance of safety in purchasing and using children’s toys, even for older kids. According to the CPSC’s Toy-Related Deaths and Injuries report, there were 11 fatalities and approximately 145,500 emergency department-treated injuries in 2022 linked to toys designed for children aged 12 and under.
The majority of the reported 11 deaths were linked to choking or asphyxiation resulting from small parts, balls, or balloons. Non-motorized scooters accounted for the largest share of emergency department-treated injuries, totaling 35,400 across all age groups. They represented one in every five toy-related injuries among children aged 14 and under.
When it comes to child safety, @lovee.miss.lauren, a TikToker known as “Lauren the Mortician,” has gained popularity for highlighting potential hazards associated with certain toys. In one of her videos, she lists items that are off-limits in her own home due to risks she has observed during her time as a funeral director. Some of these items include water beads, items with strings, teething necklaces, fidget spinners, and toys with magnets.
“Home Safe Home for the holidays.”
If you’re looking for toys, don’t just go for what’s cool. It’s also best to think about safety, especially when you’re browsing online shops. For online product purchases, the CPSC provides valuable recommendations to ensure a safe shopping experience.
Firstly, be mindful of the source from which you are buying, whether directly from a manufacturer, through a retailer, or a third-party seller. Check the “sold by” information on online marketplaces to make informed decisions.
Thoroughly read product descriptions, especially when shopping for children. Additionally, look for safety information in drop-down menus or at the bottom of the listing. Customer reviews can provide insights into other consumers’ experiences with the product.
When purchasing toys, look for a certification mark from independent testing organizations on the manufacturer’s label. This provides an additional layer of assurance regarding the safety of the product.
If considering second-hand products from an online marketplace, check for recalls before finalizing the purchase. The CPSC’s website, CPSC.gov/recalls, is a convenient resource for this purpose.
Exercise caution if a deal appears too good to be true, as exceptionally low prices may signal potential safety risks or a lack of authenticity.
Take a look at the full report here.
