Whether you brave the stores or choose to order online this holiday season, buying the perfect gift can be just as fun as receiving it. While shopping for children and imagining the delight on their faces as they rip away wrapping paper, it is also important to think about their safety. Not every item in the toy store is considered safe for kids, so it is critical to review safety notices before picking out the perfect gift this season.
The personal injury attorneys at Dale E. Anstine specialize in dangerous and defective product cases, so today we are offering up a toy safety checklist to help keep our community safe this holiday season!
Toy Safety Checklist
Is the toy age appropriate?
Keep in mind the age of those on your shopping list. Kids are not usually aware of the age recommendation for the items included on their wish lists. While picking products off the shelves or online, keep an eye out for the age range listed on the packaging to ensure they are crafted and designed with that child in mind. For example, a toy designed for ages six and older may contain small pieces that could be quickly and easily swallowed by younger children. Age-specific toys are created to align with the cognitive development expected for assigned age groups.
Is the price tag significantly reduced or too good to be true?
If the price of a toy is significantly reduced, this can be a red flag. A big price drop can occur for a variety of reasons, including some that can be a concern for safety. Has the product received complaints? Are shoppers not picking this item off the shelves? Has a new and improved version come out as a result of consumer complaints or safety risks? Is the item poorly constructed or missing pieces? These are some questions to ask before purchasing a significantly reduced item for any child.
Has the product been recalled?
Typically, recalled products are pulled off the shelves. However, it is not uncommon for them to make their way into thrift stores, consignment shops, yard sales and online resale platforms. Be especially careful when shopping at these places for gifts for children, as secondhand toys can often impose safety risks. From improper cleaning and prior usage, to missing pieces and battery corrosion, be mindful to carefully check if a toy is in safe condition and whether the manufacturer has recalled it for any reason.
Is there an expiration date?
If an expiration date is listed on the packaging or on the product, ensure that the gift will be given prior to that date and with adequate time to be used or played with safely. Expiration dates can indicate an amount of time the item is considered to be safe.
What are other consumers saying?
Check consumer reviews to get an idea of what others have experienced. Even if the toy is not recalled or appearing to be unsafe in any way, there may be unexpected problems that others have shared through consumer reviews. Know what these issues may be and if they impose a safety risk to the child you are shopping for.
We’re Here to Help
Even with the best of intentions and preparation, accidents do happen. It can be difficult to put restrictions on children, but it is important for parents and all gift buyers to pay attention to their inner voice. If there are concerns or doubts about a toy, it is best to impose some safety rules. Try not to bow to the peer pressure even when “all other children are playing with this toy.”
Do your best to shop smart this season. Keep this safety checklist in mind as you are picking out the perfect gifts for children, and check out the list of the 10 Worst Toys of 2020 shared by W.A.T.C.H (World Against Toys Causing Harm).
If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of a dangerous or defective product, reach out to the personal injury attorneys at Dale E. Anstine today. Our lawyers will go up against those responsible for putting the product into your hands, including the manufacturer and/or retailer, to fight for your rights to compensation. Consultations are always FREE, we are available 24/7, and there is no fee unless we win for you.