CPSC releases dangerous toys list

By Mollie Halpern
Investigative Reporter
Published: November 13, 2008

Tis the season…
Sarah Wideman is among millions of moms preparing a holiday gift list, and toys are at the top.
Wideman says, “I’m looking for toys that are natural, maybe recycled toys.“
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has its own list, and is asking parents to check it twice.
Nancy Nord says, “Shop smart, but with safety in mind.“
The Commission wants gift givers to be especially diligent after reports of 18 toy related deaths last year.
...and more than 170,000 toy related injuries requiring emergency room treatment.
Mitch Stoller of Safe Kids USA, says “What makes these injuries even more sad and frustrating is that most if not all of them could have been prevented.“
The commission lists 5 groups of toys they say could be hazardous to children.
Riding toys like skateboards, in line skates and scooters.
Nord says, “helmets and safety gear should be part of the gift.“
Small balls and toys with small parts are not recommended for kids under age 3, and no un-inflated balloons for children under age 8 because of concerns about choking and suffocation.
Magnets also make the list of potential hazards for children under age six.
And finally, toys with chargers and adapters should be supervised by adults.
“Chargers and adapters can impost thermal burns to children,“ Nord.
The commission hopes to help parents and santa make safe choices during what’s supposed to be one of the happiest times of the year.
the consumer product safety commission says the u-s has increased safety inspections for imported toys.
In the last seven months… 238 shipments were seized and denied entry into the country for safety violations… most due to small parts that could cause choking.