Parents know the joy of seeing children's faces light up when they unwrap a new toy. It's a magical moment filled with laughter and excitement. But while you focus on the fun, it's easy to overlook a sobering reality: toys can be a source of serious and preventable injuries. Every year, thousands of children are rushed to emergency rooms across the country because of toy-related accidents, and these incidents can be life-altering.
As we approach gift-giving seasons, it's crucial to shift our focus from a toy’s entertainment value to its safety. This isn't about being overly cautious; it's about being responsible and proactive in protecting our children.
Common Hazards & How to Spot Them
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) tracks common toy-related injuries. In 2023, an estimated 154,700 children 12 years or younger were treated in emergency rooms due to toy-related injuries, and 10 children died in toy-related incidents. Reports are also clear: choking, falls, and eye injuries are among the most frequent types of harm.
Choking Hazards: For children under three, anything small enough to fit inside a toilet paper roll is a potential choking hazard. This includes small parts that may break off a larger toy, marbles, small balls, and even uninflated or broken balloons. Always check the toy's label for age-appropriate warnings. A toy marketed for a 5-year-old might contain small parts that are incredibly dangerous for a toddler.
Falls from Riding Toys: Riding toys like scooters, bikes, and tricycles are a leading cause of toy-related injuries. While these gifts encourage outdoor play and physical activity, they also come with a significant risk of falls. A fall from a scooter or bike can result in fractures, bruises, or even a traumatic brain injury. Helmets are not optional; they are an essential piece of safety equipment that must be worn with every use.
Projectile and Eye Injuries: Toys that shoot projectiles—like dart guns or bows and arrows—can be a lot of fun, but they pose a serious threat to a child's vision. A stray projectile can cause a severe eye injury, sometimes leading to permanent damage. Supervise play with these toys and ensure children are taught to never aim at people or pets.
Other injuries or fatal accidents also include drowning and ingestion of foreign objects.
Your Action Plan: Be a Safety-Conscious Shopper
Protecting our children from harm begins long before they start playing. Here is a simple but powerful checklist to keep in mind when buying toys:
Read the Label: Pay close attention to age recommendations and safety warnings. These aren't just suggestions; they are informed guidelines based on a child's developmental stage.
Inspect the Toy: Before you buy, and periodically after, check for sharp edges, small parts that could break off, loose strings, or exposed wires. Look for toys that are sturdy and well-made.
Supervise Play: No toy, no matter how safe it seems, is a substitute for adult supervision. Stay engaged with your children as they play, especially with new or complex toys.
When a Defective Toy Causes Harm, Call a Gulfport Product Liability Lawyer
Despite your best efforts, an accident can still happen due to a defective product. In these devastating moments, it’s natural to feel lost and overwhelmed. When a toy is designed or manufactured defectively and it causes your child harm, you shouldn't have to carry that burden alone.
If your child has been seriously injured by what you believe is a dangerous or defective toy, it is imperative that you understand your rights and options. Gulf South Law Firm is committed to helping Mississippi families seek justice when negligent companies put profit over safety. Our compassionate product liability lawyer will stand by your side, providing the legal guidance you need to hold the responsible parties accountable. We are here to listen, to fight, and to help you navigate this painful journey.
For a no-cost, no-obligation consultation, contact us today at (228) 231-3989.