‘Trouble in Toyland’ Raises Concerns for Parents

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – There’s ‘Trouble in Toyland’, and studies from the U.S. Public Interest Research Group show toy safety is at the top of its chart.

Georgia Public Interest Research Group (GPIRG) program associate, Michael Sikora, believes parents need to take serious precaution before buying a “toxic toy” for their child.

“The message is clear. We need to protect our kids from unsafe toys,” Sikora says, “Parents, and care givers need to watch out for common hazards when shopping for toys.”

Some of the common dangers found in toys are: chemicals, paints and lead.

“The number one hazard is choking on small parts,” says Sikora.

“Each year in the United States over 181,000 children are treated in the emergency room for toy related injuries and that comes out to about 500 kids a day,” says Nicky Gary, a coordinator for Safe Kids Central Georgia Coordinator.

Gary added if children swallow magnetized toys, it’s possible those magnets can attract in the child’s body, and cause internal injury, or death.

Amanda Crosby is a mother of three, and fears for her children’s safety. She claims thorough research before making the wrong purchase can benefit any parent.

“Sometimes we check on parent.com,” Crosby says, “If we buy on a consignment sale the only stuff that’s allowed on the consignment sale has to be approved, so that we know that they’ve been checked as well.”

Sikora suggests parents check any additional information before letting kids play with any toy products.

“Be informed and heed and read the warning labels and the age recommendations. Really pay close attention to them, because they’re there for a reason.”

Gary agrees.

“When parents know better, they do better. So, don’t beat yourself up about it just go out have fun, but just be mindful of the toys that you’re buying.”

If you have any suspicion, or concerns about your toy purchase, you can fill out a report on saferproducts.gov.