We all know children love toys. Before you purchase toys for young children, think safety first with these helpful tips.
Check age suitability
Always give your children age appropriate toys. Infants and toddlers are particularly at risk from toys with small parts that break away, because they have not yet fully developed their natural gagging reflex.
Choose well made toys
Hard-wearing toys are safer for your child and unlikely to release small bits which become choking hazards.
Avoid toys which have sharp edges.
Toy size matters
Don’t give children under 3 toys with small or removable parts as they can be swallowed or lodged in the windpipe and create a choking hazard.
As a general guide, a choking hazard is anything with small parts that are less than 31 mm in diameter and 57 mm long.
Remember, the smaller the child the bigger the toy.
Avoid toys with small magnets
Toys with small magnets can cause serious internal damage if swallowed.
Be aware of long strings
Strings over 30 cm can wrap around a child’s neck and create a strangulation hazard. Be careful of elastic strings as they can stretch to dangerous lengths.
Check battery compartments are secure
Battery-operated toys should have battery cases that are secured by screws or other means so that kids cannot pry them open.
Batteries and battery fluid pose serious risks, including choking, internal bleeding, and chemical burns.
Button batteries are very hazardous and can kill a child if ingested.
Avoid toy boxes with heavy lids
The lid can fall on heads and fingers.
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