12.14.2021
Each year, more than 3 billion toys and games are sold in the United States, and more than half of those are sold during the holiday season. Although the majority of toys are safe, they can be dangerous if misused or if they fall into the hands of children who are too young to play with them. According to the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), toy-related injuries sent nearly 198,000 children under the age of 14 to emergency rooms last year and almost 50 percent of those injuries were to the head and face.
“Toys and games are fun for children and adults,” remarked Kasandra Moloney, Operations Chief for American Medical Response Cheyenne. “Whether your children are riding a new scooter, playing with a new play set or even inventing their own games, there are several important safety factors to consider.”
Moloney advises:
- Consider your child’s age when purchasing a toy or game – read the instructions and warning labels to make sure it is appropriate for your child
- Check to make sure there aren’t any small parts or other potential choking hazards
- Look for points, edges or breakable parts that could be sharp and avoid those toys for kids under eight
- Include safety equipment if you are purchasing toys such as bicycles, skateboards, scooters or skates
- Use a bin or container to store toys to avoid tripping hazards
Each year the PIRG issues a “Trouble in Toyland” report that provides safety guidelines for consumers when purchasing toys for small children and gives examples of toys cur¬rently on store shelves that may pose potential safety hazards. The report is a great tool for parents and can be found at uspirg.org.
AMR is committed to the health and wellbeing in the communities it serves. Our caregivers promote safety and preparedness to save lives and prevent both injury and disability.
AMR Cheyenne Advises Parents and Guardians to “Play it Safe” When Gifting Toys to Kids this Holiday Season.
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