PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- Prioritizing toy safety is essential to ensure a happy holiday. It’s that time of year again, and the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (Ministry VSA), as part of its annual observance calendar, is calling on the community to ensure safe holiday experiences for the entire family.
The 2025 holiday season is here, and CPS advises shoppers that one of the key points this holiday season is to make sure that whatever gift you buy for a child, make sure that it's safe – Shop Smart, Shop Safe. Check the safety information of toys before you purchase them.
When shopping, always check the recommended age grade on the packaging. A toy marketed for older children may contain small parts that pose a serious choking hazard to infants and toddlers (children under three).
Avoid toys with sharp edges, loud noises (which can damage hearing), or exposed wires. For stuffed animals and dolls, ensure all parts like eyes, buttons, and noses are firmly secured. It is also crucial to verify that any paint or material used is non-toxic and lead-free.
Finally, confirm that battery compartments are secured with screws to prevent children from accessing or swallowing the batteries, which can be extremely dangerous.
Beyond physical characteristics, consider the seller's reputation, especially when purchasing toys online. Counterfeit toys sold through unauthorized or unknown websites may not meet stringent safety standards (like those set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission in the USA).
These products are often made with substandard, hazardous materials that can break easily, creating dangerous fragments or exposing children to harmful chemicals.
Always look for certifications and markings that indicate compliance with safety regulations (like the CE mark in Europe or relevant US safety seals).
Prioritizing reputable retailers ensures that the toys your children receive have undergone necessary quality checks, giving you peace of mind during the holiday season.
Magnets — For children under age six, avoid building sets with small magnets. If swallowed, serious injuries and/or death can occur.
Small Parts — For children younger than age three, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking.
Ride-on Toys — Riding toys, skateboards and in-line skates go fast, and falls could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should always be sized to fit and worn when operating the aforementioned. Help instil safety discipline and road safety.
Projectile Toys — Projectile toys such as air rockets, darts and sling shots are for older children. Improper use of these toys can result in serious eye injuries.
Chargers and Adapters — Charging batteries should be supervised by adults. Chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards to children.
One of the most important gifts of all to give a child is time spent with you as a parent/guardian this holiday season.
As we prepare to celebrate the holidays, let us be mindful of how precious time is, stay close to home with immediate family and enjoy quality time from all the hustle and bustle.
