Toy Safety

Toy Safety is the practice of ensuring that toys, especially those made for children, meet set safety standards. In many countries, commercial toys must be able to pass safety tests in order to be sold. In the U.S., some toys must meet national standards, while other toys may not have to meet a defined safety standard. In countries where standards exist, they exist in order to prevent accidents, but there have still been some high-profile product recalls after such problems have occurred.

Some Important Points To Consider Before Any Toy Purchase...

Before you buy a toy for your child, you have to check if the toy is right for your child's age, and whether it is safe enough for your precious little one. There are a lot of hidden hazards concerning toys which we as parents may not realize. Here are some pointers to guide you in buying the right toy keeping toy safety in mind for your child.

Warning Labels Must Be Read and Followed

Please make sure that you read and follow to the tee, all warning labels associated with the toy you are buying. Warning labels usually warn if a toy poses choking hazards for young children (typically under the ages of 3) due to small parts. Electric toys also have warning labels.

Check For Sharp Edges and Points

It is a must to check all toys for sharp and pointed edges. This is especially important for younger children since they have a tendency to put things into their mouths or into their eyes. There is always a danger of falling on top of the toy while playing, which also may cause injury.

Check if the Toy Has Cords or Strings Attached

If the toy you are planning to buy has cords or strings attached to it, please be careful that the cords are not too long. There is always a danger of the cord getting entangled into a loop which may pose strangulation hazards to the child.

Avoid Toys With Small Parts

This is a very important point to be noted - Never buy a toy which has small or loose parts that can come unattached for younger children below the ages of three. Younger kids have a tendency to swallow things, which can pose a danger. Also check if the toy has loose parts like eyes, noses etc which can be pulled off by an overzealous child.

Make Sure the Toy is Sturdy and Strong

It is important to check to see if the toy you are buying is sturdy and built of strong shatter proof material. In case of any falls or accidents, the toy should not break into pieces with sharp edges as this can cause bodily injury to the child.

Check if the Toy is Too Loud

In case the toy you are buying is sound enabled, check if the noise levels are tolerable and the toy has volume control. Too loud toys can permanently damage the sensitive hearing of children.

Make Sure the Toy is Non Toxic

If you are buying toys like crayons, art supplies, or any liquid containing toys, make sure that the toys do not contain toxic chemicals. You can check the labels to make sure they are safe in case of accidental ingestion.

Make Sure That the Toy is Not Recalled

You can check on the internet on various sites provided by the government like Consumer Product Safety Commission and Recalls.gov to check if the toy you are buying is not on the Toy Recall Lists.