How can toys be dangerous

But the most important thing a parent can do — especially when it comes to younger children — is to supervise play. The U. Steer clear of older toys, even hand-me-downs from friends and family. These might not meet current safety standards. And make sure a toy isn't too loud for your child. The noise of some rattles, squeak toys, and musical or electronic toys can be as loud as a car horn — even louder if a child holds it directly to the ears — and can damage hearing. Always read labels to make sure a toy is right for a child's age.

Guidelines published by the CPSC and other groups can help you make those buying decisions. Be sure to consider your child's temperament, habits, and behavior whenever you buy a new toy. We will get back to you soon. Contact Us Use tthe form below to get in contact with us.

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Check out this month's recall digest here. Subscribe to our Newsletter. Product Hazards — Toys. Toy Tips to Keep Kids Safe Read and follow the age label, warnings, safety messages and assembly instructions for the toy.

Age guidelines are given for safety reasons and should not be ignored even if your child seems advanced for her age. Check toys often for hazards like loose parts, broken pieces or sharp edges, and repair or discard any weak or broken toys.

Report any hazards to the manufacturer and the CPSC. The first step in preventing toy-related injuries is to know what to look for. Toy makers follow the guidelines established by the U.

The CPSC now requires labeling on toys that are designed for children between the ages of 3 and 6, which can pose a choking hazard for children under age 3. The labels must specifically state that the toy is unsafe for children under age 3 and the reason for the warning. The age recommendation on a toy reflects the safety of a toy based on four categories.

These include:. Families with children of various ages should remember that toys for older children could be dangerous to younger children. To prevent toy-related injuries or death, take the following safety steps:. Don't let your toddler ages 3 and under play with small toys and parts. Take off any loose ribbons or strings to avoid strangulation.

Avoid toys that have small bean-like pellets or stuffing that can cause choking or suffocation if swallowed. Buy plastic toys that are sturdy. Toys made from thin plastic may break easily. Avoid toys with toxic materials that could cause poisoning. Avoid hobby kits and chemistry sets for any child younger than 12 years. They can cause fires or explosions and may contain dangerous chemicals. Make sure your older child knows how to safely handle these kinds of toys. Be careful when buying crib toys.

Soft objects, loose bedding, or any objects that could increase the risk of entrapment, suffocation, or strangulation should be kept out of the crib.

Any hanging crib toy mobiles , crib gyms should be out of the baby's reach and must be removed when your baby first begins to push up on his or her hands and knees or when the baby is 5 months old, whichever occurs first.

These toys can strangle a baby. It sets up rules and guidelines to ensure products are safe and issues recalls of products if a problem is found. Toys are recalled for various reasons including unsafe lead levels , choking or fire hazards , or other problems that make them dangerous. Toys that are recalled should be removed right away.

If you think your child has been exposed to a toy containing lead, ask your child's doctor about testing for elevated blood lead levels.