The holiday season is here and kids across the county are excited for their presents. With that it’s important to make sure the toys they receive are age appropriate and safe.
Every year hundreds of San Diego children end up in an emergency department from mishaps with toys. That’s why choking, swallowing or interacting with toys or jewelry made with lead, or those that have button or coin batteries are high on the list of doctors’ holiday concerns. Fortunately, San Diego parents can take steps to keep their family holiday safe from dangerous gifts.
First, make sure the toy is age appropriate: toy packaging will have a recommended age range. That label should also say “nontoxic” to ensure it is safe especially for infants and toddlers. Keep toys for older children out of reach especially because their small parts can be a choking risk. If a toy has a part that will fit through a cardboard toilet paper roll, it is small enough to pose a choking risk.
If possible, avoid using or buying button or coin batteries or toys that require them. Button batteries and batteries in general should be kept away from children in a drawer or cabinet out of reach. Button batteries are particularly concerning as they are a common choking hazard with serious consequences. A battery can get stuck in the child’s throat and burn a hole. This burn can quickly turn into infection, permanent damage, or even death if it’s not treated fast enough. Immediately seek emergency care if you think your child swallowed a battery.
Among other gifts to watch out for are antique toys or hand-me-downs which were already flagged as dangerous. Knowing what toys have been recalled, which toys may have lead and where to go to with concerns are essential.
Watch out for toys made in other countries or made in the United States before 1978, as they may have lead paint. Toys can only be tested for lead by a certified laboratory. At-home tests do not identify how much lead is present. It is best to check for recalls on old toys.
Lead exposure can harm a child’s brain and nervous system, slow their growth and cause learning difficulties. If you suspect your child has been exposed, remove the toy immediately. Anyone who is concerned about lead poisoning should ask their doctor for a blood test.
Washing your hands and wiping down surfaces and toys are also great ways to ensure any lead dust in the environment is removed.
Eating foods high in calcium, vitamin C and iron protect the body from absorbing lead. Fun recipes in English and Spanish are featured near the bottom of the Family Lead Safety website.
To avoid choking, swallowing and other hazards, anyone giving a gift to a child should consider the following questions:
- Are there parts that are too pointy or dangerous for the child’s age?
- Can any small parts come off the toy, even by design?
- Does an older child’s toy have parts that pose a choking hazard for another child or siblings?
- Can the toy be crushed or broken apart if stepped on, sat on or from falling?
Those gifting sports equipment or anything with wheels should also include appropriate protective gear, like helmets and pads.
The U.S. Consumer Product and Safety Commission reports that toys for children 12 and under are inspected by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). All toys that have passed inspection will have a label showing it meets those standards.
By following safe gift giving you can keep your loved ones safe too!
