|
Wish List Wellness
The winter holiday season is among the busiest times of the year for many families. Struggling to juggle the usual routine with the demands of shopping, cooking, decorating and visiting relatives, safety might not be top of mind. Make it a priority this season to change that mindset, especially when it comes to toy safety.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, each year almost 200,000 children suffer injuries from toys severe enough to be treated in a hospital emergency room. Nearly 40 percent of those injured are 5 years old or younger. Keep this checklist handy when considering gifts for young family members and friends to ensure a safe, happy holiday.
- Avoid toys that shoot or have parts that fly off.
- Choose toys made of durable materials without sharp edges or points.
- Don't give young children toys with small parts. Youngsters tend to put things in their mouths, increasing the risk of choking.
- Choose age-appropriate toys. Age labeling is provided for developmental and safety reasons.
- Select toys to suit a child's abilities, skill and interest level.
- Choose well-made stuffed animals. The eyes, nose and other small parts should be fastened securely.
- Never buy hobby kits, such as chemistry sets, for children younger than age 12.
- Look for the letters "ASTM," which indicate a toy or product meets the national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
Accidents can happen quickly at holiday gatherings when children may have less supervision. If your guest list includes a lot of young people, plan ahead to make sure the designated play area is safe. The following suggestions are a great place to start:
- Explain and demonstrate how to use toys.
- Keep toys for older children away from younger ones.
- Discard packaging immediately. Sharp staples and plastic bags can cause injuries and pose safety hazards.
- Make a list of safety rules and share them with your children. If your youngsters are playing with friends, remind everyone of your safety rules.
- Inspect older toys for broken or sharp edges, loose parts and loose strings or ribbons.
Learn skills to keep your home and family safe with American Red Cross health and safety training. There are even courses that teach lifesaving skills that apply specifically to young children, including infant and child CPR.
|
