While you consider buying Christmas gifts for kids, watch out for these hazardous toys. According to a recent survey, some of the recalled toys from that previous year are still being sold online. Here is a list of toys which are potentially troublesome for kids.
According to a report by Seattle-based WashPIRG Public Interest Research Group Foundation, some hazardous are still being sold online. These were recalled between January 2015 and October 2016 by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. In its annual reports called "Trouble in Toyland," the watchdog organization warns against buying such toys.
The difference between a toy recall and a car recall is the difficulty level to find out which one has already been recalled. It is much easier for cars, as VIN numbers can be used to learn if a car is recalled. But, for toys, it is not that easy. Many companies do not inform customers when a certain toy gets recalled.
The list WashPIRG provides consists of toys which have powerful magnets, lead and other hazards. The alarming part is that these toys are still being sold online, and customers may go for it while buying Christmas gifts for kids. According to WashPIRG Director Bruce Speight, toy recalls are not that popular.
"Above all, use common sense: the most serious injuries come from riding toys, toys with small parts that pose a choking hazard, toys that include small magnets and toys that use button batteries," Dr. Brian Johnston, chief of pediatrics at Seattle's Harborview Medical Center, said.
Here are some of the toys which have already been recalled. Glockenspiel was recalled in February for having high levels of lead that can lead to serious health hazards. In June, a remote-controlled flying toy was recalled due to its USB charging cord which can pose a hazard through overheating. A pencil case was recalled for having two strong magnets. If swallowed, these magnets can severely damage a child's intestine.
Before you buy Christmas gifts for kids, make sure you learn toy safety tips from U.S. PIRG Education Fund. Anything that is being sold does not mean it is safe. You can report hazardous toys to the CPSC.
