CHERAW, S.C. — Toys and games are tons of fun for kids and adults, but they can also pose a danger to kids if you are not careful. Thousands of children under the age of 15 years go to the emergency room each year for toy-related injuries.
Whether your kids are working on a puzzle, playing with building blocks or even inventing their own games, here are a few things you can do to help them stay safer and have a blast.
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- Consider your child’s age and development when purchasing a toy or game. Read the instructions and warning labels to make sure it is just right for your child.
- Before you have settled on the perfect toy, check to make sure there are no small parts or other potential choking hazards.
- Keep a special eye on small game pieces that may be a choking hazard for young children. While these kinds of games are great for older kids, they can pose a potential danger for younger, curious siblings.
- If your children have their hearts set on a new bike, skateboard, scooter or other riding equipment, be sure to include a CPSC certified helmet to keep them safe while they are having fun.
- After play time is over, use a bin or container to store toys for next time. Make sure there are no holes or hinges that could catch little fingers.
- Keep track of product recalls related to kids and toys at www.recalls.gov for additional information about product recalls related to kids.
For more information on preventing childhood injury, please call McLeod Safe Kids Pee Dee/Coastal at 843-777-5021 to speak to an injury prevention specialist.
You can also visit www.McLeodSafeKids.org or find the group on Facebook under McLeod Safe Kids.
