How to Buy Safe Toys

Hospitals treat thousands of kids a year for toy related injuries, especially during the holiday season. Even with tough government regulations on toys, dangerous toys and games are still on store shelves. So it remains the buyers and parents' responsibly to choose carefully the toys they give children.

1. Examine a toy for small parts. Even a bear with a charm at the end of it can be potentially dangerous with small children around.

2. Toys should never have sharp objects. While most toys are manufactured to avoid this, toys are usually made by machines and can easily be miss-manufactured.

3. Rattles and teething toys should be too big to fit in a baby's mouth, even when squished either which way.

4. Be aware of age recommendations of toys. Toys are not just labeled based on appeal but also on safety. A younger household member should also be considered when buying for a older child. Toys or games that have smaller parts should not be around small children, if the older child is not good at putting up toy, such toys might need to be reconsidered. If giving such gift as a gift it may be best to consult the parent first.

5. Toys with long strings or loops can be dangerous for small children. Check even the most unlikely places, for instance if a doll has a apron on it the apron should be well attached.

6. Check labels with care. Not all things that appear to be toys are toys. This is a common factor in dolls and collectible cars. Painted toys label should include the word non-toxic. Toys with material labels should include that they are flame retardant and washable.

7. Used and even new electrical toys carry more risks and should be looked over carefully. Toy should carry a UL seal of approval from the underwriters laboratory. Used electric toys should be carefully inspected to insure not open wires or signs of water damage. Safety features such as the battery case should be inspected to insure they are still in working order.

via.http://www.ehow.com/how_4623582_buy-safe-toys.html