Parents and caregivers should be aware that many toy hazards can be found on toy shelves this holiday season. Some dangers may be evident, however many hidden hazards exist.
Please be sure you are informed about what hazards to look for, and importantly – do not assume a toy is safe merely because it is offered for sale. In some instances, testing is inadequate. Also, many existing regulations are inadequate, or have loopholes that allow defective toys to make their way into homes and schools.
A dangerous toy may have been poorly manufactured or designed, misleadingly advertised, inaccurately labeled, or irresponsibly sold to or for children, many of whom are too young to appreciate the toy’s hazards.
The non-profit organization World Against Toys Causing Harm, Inc. (W.A.T.C.H.) has been at the forefront of child safety issues for decades. Please check out its website at www.toysafety.org for this year’s “Ten Worst Toys” list, as well as other safety tips and information. A recent article regarding the 2014 list, as well as important related issues, can be found at http://www.nationaljournal.com/health-care/the-most-dangerous-toys-in-america-20141202