When shopping for toys, parents and caregivers naturally prioritize safety. However, while reputable toy brands take strict measures to ensure their products meet safety standards, toys sold by unknown sellers on online marketplaces, discount stores, or markets could pose serious risks. Understanding how to identify and avoid dangerous toys is key to protecting children, particularly babies and toddlers, from harm. Key Toy Safety Checks Before purchasing a toy, it's important to perform a few safety checks to ensure it’s safe for children. Start by inspecting battery compartments for accessible button batteries or loose spares, which can be dangerous if swallowed. Small magnets are another hazard, as they can be swallowed and cause severe internal injuries. Tugging at parts of the toy to check for any small components that might detach can also help prevent choking hazards. Pay attention to any long cords or accessible stuffing that could be dangerous. Always check the toy for clear age restrictions or safety warnings, which indicate whether the toy is suitable for the intended age group. Reporting Dangerous Toys If you suspect a toy is unsafe, don’t hesitate to report it. There are several consumer helplines where you can raise concerns, including: Citizens Advice consumer helpline: 0808 223 1133 Advice Direct Scotland helpline: 0808 164 6000 Northern Ireland Consumerline: 0300 123 6262 In cases where a toy has caused harm, it’s essential to act swiftly. For example, the mother of a two-year-old named Becca shared her heartbreaking story of how her child swallowed magnets from a toy bought online, underlining the severe dangers of purchasing toys from unverified sellers. Buying Toys Safely To minimize risk, always buy toys from trusted brands or well-known sellers. If a toy seems unusually cheap or is from an unfamiliar brand, it could be a dangerous copy of a popular product. These toys may not meet the UK safety standards, which could expose children to hidden risks. Additionally, always check for product recalls. The UK government’s website has an up-to-date list of toys and products that have been deemed unsafe and removed from sale. If you’ve purchased a toy that looks unsafe, trust your instincts and return it immediately. Why Babies and Toddlers Are Most at Risk Babies and toddlers are especially vulnerable to toy-related injuries because of their natural curiosity, which often leads them to put toys in their mouths. Toys that pose the greatest danger to children under three include those with accessible button batteries, small detachable parts, or super strong magnets. Long cords and toys that contain stuffing can also pose risks, such as strangulation or suffocation. Common Toy Hazards Some of the most dangerous types of toys include: Toys with accessible button batteries: If swallowed, these can cause severe internal burns. Toys with small or loose parts: These are choking hazards, especially for younger children. Toys with strong magnets: These can be extremely dangerous if ingested, causing internal injuries. Toys with long cords: These can lead to strangulation. Water beads: If swallowed, they can block a child’s bowel. Electrical toys: Exposed wires or chargers can pose a fire risk. Toy safety should be a top priority for any parent or caregiver. By taking simple precautions when buying and checking toys, you can help ensure that children are protected from harmful products. Always buy from reputable sources, look out for recalls, and trust your instincts. With careful shopping and vigilance, you can help keep children safe from the dangers that unsafe toys can present. Source: Child Accident Prevention Trust (capt.org.uk)
