09 Dec Recognizing Safe Toys and Gifts Month

This is the time of year when the aisles of nearly every store are filled with toys, and many people enjoy buying them for not only their own children but also for others. When picking out that perfect gift, sometimes it can be easy to overlook the issue of safety. However, with so many children hurt every year in accidents involving toys, their safety should be a concern for everyone who either buys or receives toys as gifts this season. December is Recognizing Safe Toys and Gifts Month, and there are three main areas of focus for ensuring that children play with safe toys.

Buying safe toys

All toys should be inspected before purchasing.Look for sharp edges, points, or materials that could be easily pulled apart or shattered with impact. Avoid toys with parts that project or fly off.

• Look for sharp edges, points, or materials that could be easily pulled apart or shattered with impact. Avoid toys with parts that project or fly off.
• Ensure that toys are age-appropriate. Special care should be taken in giving toys with small parts, magnets or button batteries to young children.
• Labels from the ATSM (American Society for Testing and Materials) ensures that the toy has met their safety standards.

Playing safely

The easiest way to ensure that children are playing safely is to play with them.

• Ensure that children are using their toys as directed by the manufacturer.
• Children should always use the recommended safety equipment – such as helmets and elbow pads.
• Care should be taken that younger children are not playing with toys for meant for older siblings or friends.

Maintaining safety

Once a child has received a toy, continual maintenance is important.

• Ensure that broken toys are repaired, replaced or discarded promptly.
• Keep outdoor toys covered and dry to avoid rust damage.
• Put away toys after use to avoid tripping and falling hazards.

Watching a child at play can be fun and refreshing. By taking a few simple steps to ensure they are playing safely, we can help prevent that fun from turning to tragedy.

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