As children are making their festival lists and parents are checking it twice be sure to keep in mind toy safety. There are many things for gift buyers to consider before they make their purchases. More children die each year from injuries than diseases, kidnappings and drugs combined. Every year in Oklahoma approximately 130 children up to age 15 die from unintentional injuries.
The good news is these injuries are preventable. Oklahoma City County Health Department Child Development Specialist, Robyn Sears says, "The best way to prevent injuries is by supervising children as they play with their toys."
The following are more tips from the Oklahoma City County Health Department to consider during this gift-giving time of year:
* Be a label reader. Look for toy labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide. Check toy instructions for clarity - for both you and, when appropriate, the child. Always follow the manufacturers instructions and use toys for what they are intended for.
* Before buying a gift always consider the child's age and maturity level. Buy a toy suitable for the child's abilities, skills and interest level.
* To prevent choking do not give toddlers or infants toys made for kids older than 3. The small parts could be a choking hazard. Look for high quality, well-constructed toys, such as tightly-secured eyes, noses and other potential small parts. Check the toys periodically for broken parts to be repaired or thrown-out. Children younger than 3 should also not be given toys with cords longer than 12-inches long. These could get wrapped around a child's neck. Keep in mind Mylar balloons are safer than latex if you buy balloons.
* Magnetic toys should be kept away from children younger than age 6. These can cause obstructions in the digestive tract or perforations and holes. They can be found in magnetic building sets and magnetic beads and jewelry.
* Children under 8 should not be given toys with sharp edges or electrical toys (not including batteries).
* Teach older children to keep their toys separate from younger siblings' toys.
* Be sure toys do not contain toxic paint or lead. This year 19 toys have been recalled by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission due to violations of the standard for lead paint.
* Make sure dress-up costumes or pajamas are labeled "flame retardant/flame resistant"
* If you give a bicycle, roller blades, skateboard or scooter as a gift be sure to include a helmet, wrist guard, knee pads with the gift. Use this as an opportunity to talk to your children about safety.
* Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys, which can cause suffocation, before they become deadly playthings
Again, do not forget to supervise children as they play. Teach them to put away their toys after playing with them. Safe storage can help prevent injuries.
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