Massachusetts Personal Injury Library
Buying Safe Toys for Children
Parents who want to make sure their children are playing safe, should check out toy safety resources at USA Safe Kids. USA Safe Kids, a world-wide child safety organization, has recommendations on how to purchase safe toys that are appropriate for your child.
In 2002, at least 13 children ages 14 and under died from toy-related injuries. Also in 2002, 217,000 children ages 14 and under were treated in hospital emergency rooms for toy-related injuries. Most deaths are caused by babies or toddlers choking on small parts from toys.
Safe Kids recommendations for buying new toys:
- buy age-appropriate toys
- do not buy toys with small parts or allow a child under age 3 to play with older kids’ toys with small parts
- use a small parts tester from Safe Kids Resource Catalog or use an empty toilet paper roll; don’t let children play with anything that can fit into that space
- before shopping for toys, match the child's age, interest and skill level
- read labels -look for well-made toys; follow the age and safety information on the warning labels
- read instructions
- always remove and discard all packaging
- supervise children when they play and set good examples of safe play.
- remind caregivers and grandparents, about safety rules
- separate and store toys by age levels. Teach children to put toys away after playing so no one falls or is injured.
Recommendations for buying used toys:
- check old toys regularly for damages such as sharp edges or small parts–repair or throw away damaged toys
- sign up to receive product recalls with the Consumer Product Safety Commission
- avoid buying second-hand or used toys; they may have been recalled as unsafe.
- use caution when buying toys online
- inspect toys to make sure they are in good repair. Do not let young children play with toys that have straps, cords or strings longer than 7 inches, because of the risk of strangulation.
- caregivers should watch children playing with any toy that has small parts, moving parts, electrical or battery power, cords, or wheels
- active supervision means keeping the child in sight and in reach and paying undivided attention
- toy chests should have safety hinges that prevent the lid from closing on a child
When you are interviewing Boston defective product lawyer ask critical questions, like: how long have you been practicing; what is the largest settlement or verdict you've obtained, and do you have experience with burn accidents involving children? The Kiley Law Group, located in Andover and Boston in Massachusetts takes time when speaking with you about your case and works with you on a contingent basis so there are NO FEES unless our trained Massachusetts personal injury lawyers wins your case. Call now for a FREE evaluation of your case – 1-888-208-1695.
