The 30th annual Trouble in Toyland report came out just in time for the holiday season. Consumers buying toys for young children this year are advised to review the report in order to avoid purchasing dangerous toys. It is the responsibility of everyone—toy manufactures, policymakers, and consumers—to ensure the safety of children playing with toys.
Below is a list of 7 dangerous toys on the shelves in 2015 that Babcock Tucker would like to warn parents in Colorado and throughout the nation about:
- Minions Locking Pencil Case
According to the “Trouble in Toyland” report, this item contains high levels of chromium. This toy does not violate any laws regarding chromium usage, but the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG) hopes the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) will do further testing on the toy to ensure public safety.
- Fun Bubbles Jump Rope
This toy contains almost 10 times the number of phthalates allowed in toys according to the U.S. PIRG. Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastic more flexible. Research has shown that exposure to phthalates can have negative effects on a child’s development.
- Disney Pixar Finding Nemo Dory Figurine
According to the U.S. PIRG, this toy is a choking hazard. The figurine easily breaks into small parts, which can be swallowed by young children. The toy is advertised as suitable for children 3 years of age and older; however, the packaging does not include the required choking hazard warning for ages 3-6.
- Singing Magnets
Magnets can be extremely harmful if swallowed. These toys do not fit into the choking tube used to test the possibility of children swallowing toys, so it does not violate any laws. However, the magnets are very small and the packaging does not give any age range for appropriate use.
- Magic Towel (Football Shape)
This item passes the choke test, however it does not meet the specifications required for small balls. Because of its size, the packaging should include the appropriate warning label for small balls.
- Balloon Animal Kit
Balloons pose a choking hazard. According to the U.S. PIRG, balloons are dangerous for children under 8 years old. The packaging of this item advertises a 3 years or older label though.
- Fisher Price Click-n-Learn Remote
This toy is geared toward children between 8-36 months old. The noise level of the toy measures at 80 decibels near the ear. That level pushes the limit of being too loud for the use of children.
The above list is precautionary. Toys have become increasingly safer throughout the years, in part to the research from the U.S. Public Interest Research Group Educational Fund and also the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Parents and toy buyers alike should remain vigilant when choosing appropriate toys for children.
