Clear and present danger? Tips to help your kids avoid toy-related injuries
The holiday season is all about giving and being merry, but nobody is happy when they get hurt.
Throughout the world, children will spend Christmas morning opening presents carefully picked out by family and loved ones. However, some of those gifts can be the cause of some not-so-joyful injuries, including toys.
According to the 2018 Consumer Product Safety Commission Report, there was an estimated 226,100 toy-related injuries treated in emergency room across the nation in 2018, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environment Control shared in a release. Of those, 70 percent occurred to a children 12 years or younger, the release states, adding that 37 percent happened to children younger than five.
“Toys are supposed to bring joy and delight during the gift-giving season, and DHEC wants to make sure little ones stay safe,” Emma Kennedy, Director of the Division of Injury and Substance Abuse Prevention, said.
Here are a few safety tips, courtesy of DHEC, to ensure your children can play with their toys and remain scratch free this holiday season:
- Supervision: With toys getting used and abused by children, parents are advised to regularly check toys for safety and durability, while also providing a safe, hazard-free play environments both indoors and outdoors.
- Pay close attention to the age recommendations: Toys are made for a specific age, interest and skill level and offer that recommendation on the package. Be sure to choose a toy that’s appropriate for a particular child. Also be aware of other safety labels on dolls and other stuffed toys.
- Discard plastic wrappings: Plastic can be found on most toys and can potentially become deadly playthings to small children if not thrown away.
- Choking hazards: Always remember to keep toys with small parts, such as removable eyes, noses, etc., away from young children.
- Inspect all toys: Toys with sharp points or edges made from metal or glass should not be given to children under eight years old. This includes stuffed animals with wires that could stab, cut or shock if exposed.
