Toy Safety 2008

ToyPhoto4Toy Safety Tips

Before you head out to shop for toys this holiday season, take a look at these easy tips and keep them in mind for all the good little girls and boys on your list.

Tips

Bear Before shopping for toys, consider the child’s age, interest and skill level. 
Bear When shopping, read labels. Look for well-made toys and follow age and safety information on the warning labels.
Bear Keep toys with small parts away from children under age 3. They can choke on small toys and toy parts.
Bear Carefully read instructions for the assembly and use of toys.
Bear Always remove and discard all packaging from a toy before giving it to a baby or small child.
Bear Supervise children when they play and set good examples of safe play. A toy intended for an older child may be dangerous in the hands of a younger child.
Bear Remind caregivers, including grandparents, of play-related safety concerns.
Bear Separate and store toys by age levels. Teach children to put toys away after playing. Safe storage prevents falls and other injuries. 
Bear Check old and new toys regularly for damages such as sharp edges or small parts. Make any repairs immediately or throw away damaged toys.
Download the Toy Safety Tips in English and Espanol
Download the Toy Safety Poster in English and Espanol
 

WHAT YOU CAN DO

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SMALL PARTS TESTER

One very easy step that you can take to prevent choking in relation to toys is to buy a small parts tester.

Small parts testers, also known as "choke tubes," are designed for testing which objects are small enough to pose a choking hazard to kids ages 3 and under.

If the item fits into the tester, then it is too small for a child this age. 

This device is a great tool to help parents with children of various ages know what toys and small parts may pose a hazard for the littlest ones.

Visit the Safe Kids Store to buy a small parts tester

This Holiday Season - Make sure to visit our decorating safety page, our cooking safety page and our fire and burn safety page.

Visit Safe Kids USA