Toy safety expert Marianne Szymanski shows examples of both dangerous and safe toys. Parental awareness is the key, she says. Parents should know how to test their children's new toys for safety. In addition, old toys may have sentimental value, but they are not always safe.
There are three key hazards to look for when considering child safety around the house:
- small parts
- sharp parts
- sharp edges
Here are a few safety tests:
Use-and-Abuse Test
Since children tend to be tough on their toys, they should be able to hold up under the stress. The ability of the toy to sustain impact is important, as is its flexibility.
Stuffed Animals
Pull and tug on the seams to ensure their quality. For stuffed animals, the quality of the stitching is important. If the seams rip, there is a danger that the child could choke on the stuffing.
Pull-String Toys
For a see-and-say type toy with a pull-string, the string should be no longe than seven inches. This will prevent it from getting tangled around a child's neck.
Choke-Hole Tube
Test for choking hazards with a "choke-hole tube." Generally, items smaller than a table-tennis ball are considered choking hazards.
Buttons
Buttons with bright colors should be avoided, as they might look like candy.
Hazardous Packaging
Packaging should always be removed and discarded before a child plays with a toy. Nearly all types of packaging represent some form of choking hazard.
Resources Toy Tips Inc.
Website:
www.toytips.com
Guests Marianne Szymanski
President, Toy Tips, Inc.
E-mail:
marianne@toytips.com
Website:
www.toytips.com
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