Each holiday season, while children’s eyes are twinkling at the thought of receiving new toys and games, they are unaware of the dangers some gifts pose.
Prevent Blindness America observes Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month each December to emphasize the importance of giving children suitable, safe gifts.
“It’s critical to consider the safety and age range of the recipient when it comes to toys and gifts for children,” said ED Director Brenna Wynn, MD. “Be sure the gift suits the age and individual skills and abilities of the child who will receive it, especially for infants and toddlers.”
Follow these US Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines when making your gift list this season:
- Balloons can cause choking or suffocation. Keep deflated balloons away from children under 8 years old. Discard broken balloons immediately.
- Small parts can cause choking, especially in children younger than 3.
- Ride-On toys, such as scooters, skateboards, and roller or in-line skates, can cause falls that could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should be worn properly at all times.
- Magnets and high-powered magnet building sets are dangerous and should be kept away from children.
After gifts are opened, follow these safety precautions:
- Immediately discard plastic wrapping and all packaging.
- Keep toys appropriate for older children away from younger ones.
- Adults should supervise all battery charging as chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards.
In case of an injury, get to the closest emergency room immediately.