'Tis the season to treat children to gifts. The last thing you want do is provide gifts that injure children. Here's a buying guide of 6 safety tips.
1. Consider the age of ALL children in the household.
A toy that is great for an 8 year old might be deadly to her 2-year-old brother. Read the labels and obey. For example, when it says, "Not recommended for children under three," that's not a comment on intelligence. Two year olds put things in their mouths.
Marbles, game parts, or pieces less than 1.75 inches in diameter are choking hazards. If the item fits though a toilet paper roll, then it is too small for children under age 3. Avoid toys with buttons or eyes or pom poms that a child (or the dog) can twist and pull apart.
Safe Kids published a pocket guide to age-appropriate gifts.
2. Loud Noise Makers.
Some toys and electronics are loud enough to damage tender young ears. Look for the warning labels, and instruct kids appropriately.
3. Extra Caution for Crib Toys.
Soft toys present a suffocation hazard. Keep them out of the crib. Keep mobiles out of reach of children.
4. Sharp Edges; Sharp Toys.
Obviously, bows & arrows can be an issue. But what about sharp brittle plastic on other toys? Imagine whether the toy will withstand a good pounding or break into sharp parts.
5. Helmets and Safety Gear.
Don't give the bike or snowboard without a helmet. Elbow and knee pads should go with the skateboard. Coordinate with other givers.
6. Propelled Objects and Toy Guns
Okay, you relented and gave Jimmy a paint ball gun, which Jimmy will keep away from baby sister. But what about other toys that have projectiles? Any flying toys or missiles become weapons with creative play.
If you buy a toy gun, make sure it is brightly colored so it will never be confused for a real gun. Paint it yourself, if you need to. Again, make sure all kids in the house are mature enough and well trained to avoid dangerous conduct.
Dan Aykroyd selling a "bag of glass" is funny. Sometimes, however, the dangerousness of gifts for children is not so obvious. Following these tips may keep the joy of giving from becoming the tragedy of child injury.
Jeff Merrick, Oregon Trial Attorney
Injury & Employment Law
503-665-4234
