Don't Toy With Safety

Naturally, you want your children to have a safe play environment with safe toys. Did you know that in 2009, there were an estimated 181,900 toy-related injuries? And that children under 5 accounted for nearly half of these injuries?

Do your children like small play balls and balloons? These kinds of toys account for many choking deaths. Do your children like riding toys – unpowered scooters or tricycles? They are associated with more injuries than any other toy group; in fact half of the toy-related injuries treated in emergency rooms were caused by unpowered riding toys. In addition to other hazards, any electrical toy is a potential burn hazard.

Make sure your children play safely by following some simple safety tips.

Top Toy Safety Tips

Be sure your children play with toys that are age-appropriate. Read the warning labels before buying toys for your children.

Look for well-made toys

Check toys regularly for damage that could create hazards. Repair or discard damaged toys immediately.

Make sure that discarded toys are out of children’s reach.

Watch your children while they play. Be aware of potential dangers like small parts, cords and strings, moving parts, electrical or battery-powered cords or wheels

Do not allow riding toys near stairs, traffic or swimming pools

Teach children to put toys away after playing. Toys intended for younger children should be stored separately from those suitable for older children

Make sure toy chests are open (no lid) or have safety hinges.

More About Toy Safety

Pocket Guide to Safe and Age Appropriate Toys

Important Safety Recalls