According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission’s most recent report, it is estimated that about 254,200 toy-related injuries occurred that required emergency room treatment in 2015 alone.
Unfortunately, toy manufacturers still produce toys that could be potentially dangerous to children. Attorney Dick Freeburn recently went on ABC27’s Good Day PA to discuss hazardous toys and how to keep kids safe this holiday season. If you missed the segment, you can watch it by clicking the link below.
When shopping for toys this holiday season, be sure to keep in mind the dangers toys could pose to your little ones. Some potential hazards toys could pose are:
- Choking – toys with small parts could pose a serious threat to a child. The popular “Fidget Spinner” toy can actually come apart and if a child puts the pieces in their mouth, they could choke. Additionally, toys that come with removable accessories such as the “Brianna Mine to Love” toy could also cause a child to choke.
- Strangulation - the industry requires strings on playpen and crib toys to be less than 12 inches in length, however there is no regulation for “pull toys”. Toys such as the “Pull Along Pony’s” cord with cords measuring longer than 12 inches pose a strangulation/entanglement hazard.
- Blunt force trauma – many toy swords on the market such as the “Wonder Woman Battle-Action Sword” have pointy tips. When children play with the swords and jab at people, they could cause serious facial or other impact injuries.
- Fire – some toys may actually be flammable so be sure to check the packaging before you purchase. Additionally, some toys such as the “Razor Jetts Heel Wheels” release sparks which can cause a fire and injury.
Freeburn Law would like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season!
Freeburn Law, Just Call The 7’s – Because the Right Law Firm Makes a Real Difference.