Toy Safety Essay

404 Words2 Pages
Before you buy a toy for a child, you have to check if it is the right age for them, and if it is safe enough. In order for toys to be sold they have to pass a safety test to prevent accidents. Toys must not be sold if they do not have a correct safety label. If an unsafe toy is found, it will be removed from the market. Toys should be checked at least every three months to determine their safety. Make any repairs immediately or throw away damaged toys. All toys should be kept clean. Toys that have been in contact with food or outside should be wiped down on a regular basis. When buying a toy, you should also be cautious of the fact that it might have strings or cords. According to (Hobart, Frankel, 2009, 30): ‘Anything with strings should not be near the baby as, if the string becomes wrapped around the neck or other parts of the body, the blood supply could be cut off, or the child could be hanged’. When buying paint, playdough or crayons for children, it is essential that they are non-toxic. It they were digested, there would be signs such as: • trouble breathing, crying or talking • coughing that does not clear the airways • wheezing or noisy breathing • trouble swallowing • drooling or bringing up saliva • loss of consciousness. Supervision is important even with non-toxic materials. Problems can occur if toys with batteries are not treated properly. Small batteries, such as the mercury disc batteries present a danger particularly to young children who can choke on them or swallow them and be poisoned. They should never be left lying around, children should be taught not to put them in their mouths, ears or up their noses. A child should never be left to change the battery of a toy. After replacing a battery the cover should be placed securely and correctly so no problems will arise. Here are a few guidelines that should be
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