Are Today’s Toys Safer than they were a Few Years Ago?

While toys are becoming safer and recalls are on the decline, toys continue to pose a danger to children. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that during 2010, approximately 181,500 children under the age of 15 were treated in emergency rooms for toy-related injuries.  Balloons and small balls were associated with 47 percent of the reported deaths; most deaths were from asphyxiation or choking.

When it comes to toy safety, you can't always count on the manufacturers (or Santa). Despite regulations and the CPSC staying abreast of unsafe toys, the bottom line is that sometimes potentially dangerous toys will continue to make their way on store shelves.  Sadly, the general public will be unaware of the risks until injuries, or a death occurs.

Parents need to be vigilant by choosing age-appropriate toys and keeping small parts out of the hands of young children.  With the proper knowledge and vigilance, parents can ensure that their children are protected from the dangers some toys can present.

Everyday, not just during the holidays, "think safety" first when buying children’s toys.

·         Choose toys according to a child's age, interests, and skill level.

·         Be sure to check the warning labels for safety information.

·         Supervise your children while they play

·         Check toys regularly for damage (such as sharp edges, small parts.)

·         Return, repair or discard broken toy.

For additional toy safety tips, visit the CPSC website.  Parents should also stay informed about any unsafe toy products on the market by checking the Consumer Product Safety Commission's recall website at http://www.recalls.gov.  To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, go to: www.saferproducts.gov or call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772.

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