The holidays are in full swing; while "Santa" may be finalizing his gift list and checking it twice, there are a few things you should consider before buying your tiny tots their favorite toys this holiday season. December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month, encouraging individuals to consider if the toys they purchase are safe and age-appropriate for children.
What to Consider When Holiday Shopping for Children
There were approximately 198,000 toy-related injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2020. During this holiday season, it's crucial to be aware of the potential safety hazards certain toys can bring to young children. When choosing safe toys consider adhering to these suggestions this gift-giving season:
Recalled Toys
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recalled 13 toys so far in 2021 for high levels of lead and easily breakable parts. Before purchasing, consider checking if the toy is recalled on reliable sites such as Safe Kids Worldwide, which provides a comprehensive list of monthly toy recalls.
Counterfeit Products
Knock-off or counterfeit toys can be purchased online and are often non-compliant with U.S. regulations. It's always a good idea to shop at a retail store to determine if a toy's safety arises from the manufacturer. The U.S Chamber of Commerce (USCC) and the CPSC warns consumers to be aware of products marked at unreasonably cheap prices, which could raise levels of concerns.
Before purchasing, check if the site's information is accurate by comparing it with an authorized retailer.
Tips for Safe Toys and Gifts
Here are some preventative measures from The American Public Health Association (APHA) that you can take before purchasing toys for young children.
Analyze toys before purchasing. Check to see if they have small parts that could be a choking hazard or sharp edges that could result in a severe injury if ingested.
Consider inspecting toys after your child has received them, and ensure that they are age and skill-appropriate for the child.
Do not buy toys that have lead or other harsh substances inside. Exposure to lead poisoning is very harmful to children and could result in severe injury or fatality.
Chicago Product Liability Attorneys
has over 60 years of legal experience providing our clients with personal and attentive legal representation. Our team has a vast knowledge of product liability and defective products. We strive to stand up for those injured due to the negligence of a company or manufacturer.
If your child was exposed to a harmful or defective product, contact us today at (312) 888-8700 to discuss your case.