Each year, approximately 3 billion toys are sold in the Unites States. While meant to be fun and entertaining, some toys can be dangerous. Please make responsible selections when purchasing gifts for children.
Below are some guidelines to help keep children safe.
- Read instructions and warnings on the packaging.
- Buy age-appropriate toys.
- Listen to toys that make noise to be sure the sound will not frighten the child.
- Avoid toys with sharp or rigid points and dangerous edges.
- Avoid toys with small parts that present a choking hazard for young children.
- Separate older and younger children’s toys in your household. Younger children love to play with their older siblings’ toys, which may contain small parts that could become choking hazards.
- Avoid marbles, balls and games with balls that have a diameter of 1.75 inches or less for children under age 3.
- Look for art materials, including crayons and paint sets, marked with the designation “ASTM D-4236.” This means the product has been reviewed by a toxicologist.
- If you purchase a toy with wheels for a child of any age, such as bicycles, skateboards, scooters and tricycles, buy a helmet too.
- Inspect all toys for safe construction.
- Demonstrate how to use the toy safely.
- Secure all batteries firmly so they are not accessible.
- Provide supervision.
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