As you make your final holiday purchases, BubbleLife Media would like to remind you to select safe toys this holiday. Try to always pick toys that are age appropriate for children, teach older children to keep their toys away from younger siblings and plastic packaging wrap should be discarded immediately and not played with like a toy. Protecting children from unsafe toys is the responsibility of everyone. Careful toy section and proper supervision of children at play is still – and always will be – the best way to protect children from toy-related injuries.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has additional tips to help you make the right choice for children’s toys:

• Sharp Edges: New toys intended for children under eight years of age should be free of sharp glass and metal edges. With use, however, older toys may break, exposing cutting edges.
• Cords and Strings: Toys with long strings or cords are dangerous for infants and very young children. Never hang toys with long strings, cords, loops or ribbons in cribs or playpens.
• Propelled Objects: Flying toys can be turned into weapons and can injure eyes. Children should never be permitted to play with equipment that has sharp points.
• Electric Toys: Electric toys with heating elements are recommended for children eight years or older. Children should be taught to use electric toys properly and cautiously under supervision.
• Small Parts: The law bans small parts in toys intended for children under three. This includes removable small eyes and noses on stuffed toys and dolls, and small, removable squeakers on squeeze toys.
• Infant Toys: Infant toys, such as rattles, squeeze toys and teethers, should be large enough so that they cannot enter and become lodged in an infant’s throat.

“All toys are not for all children,” said the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. “Keep toys designed for older children out of the hands of little ones. Follow labels that give age recommendations and teach older children to help keep their toys away from younger brothers and sisters.

Think toy safety by knowing toy dangers. Have a safe and happy holiday!

Story courtesy of BubbleLife Editor Sarah Calams