Toy Safety: Be Aware of What's In Your Home And Around The Kids
The list is usually revealed at the holidays, but it bears repeating year-round. Keep a close eye on the toys brought into your home because some experts say just because they're sold at the store doesn't mean they're safe.
The Public Interest Research
Group (PIRG) tested 300 toys a few months ago and found alleged problems with 18 of them. Get the complete list HERE.
Some of the dangers cited include toys with high levels of toxic substances like phthalates and chromium, toys that are potential choking hazards, and toys that make loud sounds.
Beaumont Children's Hospital Emergency Dr. Jaime Hope told WWJ Newsradio the latter can be a problem, especially for younger kids.
"Longterm it's causing damage to those tiny little eardrums," Hope told WWJ Health Reporter Dr. Deanna Lites. "And it can cause decreased hearing that can show up in childhood and later in life."
"The earlier in childhood the hearing loss is caused, the more likely it can lead to language deficits," she said.
Also on this year's list are the popular Fisher Price Click n Learn Remote and Vtech Spin and Learn Color Flashlight. Both, PIRGM claims, are too loud.
It should be noted that there is some debate as to whether these toys pose a danger. The Toy Industry Association says the information by PIRG is misleading and that all toys sold in the U.S. are highly regulated 365 days a year by the federal government.
