Toy Safety

Each year, approximately 217,000 children ages 14 and under are treated in hospital emergency departments for toy-related injuries.

Toys that seem innocent, including art supplies such as crayons and chalk, baby rattles, and even book bags, can be hazardous. Many parents assume that they only need to worry about the safety of the toys they buy for their younger children. But a child of any age can be hurt by unsafe or inappropriate toys.

Your child's age determines her skill level as well as her ability to reason. For example, younger children use their mouths to explore and are likely to stick small toys into their mouths, which can lead to choking.

Prevention

To help keep your children out of the emergency department, here are some guidelines to follow when purchasing toys:

• Use the age labeling on toys as your guideline when purchasing.
• Keep toys intended for your older children away from their younger siblings. Store or give away toys that your older children have outgrown.
• Check for the letters "ASTM" on your children's toys when purchasing them. This indicates that the toy meets national safety standards developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
• Show your children how to use their new toys. Remember, electrical toys can be a burn hazard if they're used incorrectly.
• Teach your children to put their toys away right after they're done with them to help prevent falls and other injuries.
• Check your children's old and new toys regularly for damage such as sharp edges. If the toy cannot be repaired, throw it away.
• Avoid toys with long strings or cords, which can cause accidental strangulation.
• Get rid of toys with lead paint which can result in lead poisoning.

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