While the holiday season may mean last minute shopping for many of us, it’s important to take the time and look at the products you plan to buy in order to ensure that they are safe for children. W.A.T.C.H., the World Against Toys Causing Harm, releases a list of dangerous toys every year in order to warn family and friends against buying potentially harmful presents for children. Here are the top five most dangerous toys of 2015 to stay clear of:
1. The Smack Shot
The Smack Shot, manufactured by Imperial Toys, poses a serious hazard to children. The child using this sling-shot can injure other children who are too close to the sling shot. The pellets can be shot up to 100 feet. The product comes with a warning, which says that the Smack Shot should never be launched at animals or people’s faces. The pellets can also be a choking hazard to infants. The product recommends warning the intended target before shooting the Smack Shot to avoid unintended injuries. The product currently retails for $10 and is aimed for children eight years and older.
2. Skipit’s Wheely Cute Pull Along
The Skipit’s Wheely is a small furry animal on wheels, which can be pulled by a string. The product was created by Bunnies by the Bay and retails for $29.99. The company created the product for children six months and older. However, it was recalled in June 2015, because the small hub caps on the wheels would break and pose a choking hazard for infants.
3. Foam Dart Gun
The Foam Dart Gun, created by GD. Jiefung Toys, was included in this list because, according to W.A.T.C.H, “resulted in a number of deaths throughout the years.” The organization also claims that toys should never simulate weapons that provide “unnecessary thrills” for children. This product is recommended for children three years and older and sells for $13.99.
4. The 38-Inch Quick Folding Trampoline
This child-size trampoline is produced by Toys R. Us and retails for $49.99.It’s intended for children six and older. The trampoline comes with a warning that “landing on the head or neck can cause serious injury, paralysis, or death, even when landing in the middle of the bed.” The trampoline is so small that children may easily fall off.
5. The Poo Dough
The Poo Dough, manufactured by Skyrocket Toys, is added to this list because it carries the risk of provoking allergic reactions. The Poo Dough is made of clay, which is made of wheat and can cause allergic reactions in some children. Gluten or wheat allergy is increasingly common in children and can cause a range of dangerous health afflictions such as hives, headaches, and even anaphylaxis. The product retails for $4.99 and is recommended for children three years or older.
As you can see, many toys usually contain warning labels about the potential threats they may pose to children. Make sure to read the labels of each toy before purchasing it. You should not buy toys that do not have any warning labels. You should also ensure that your child is old enough to play with the toy and that it is used responsibly. By following the safety precautions, you can ensure that your children, or the children of others, are not exposed to the risk of injury this holiday season.
comments