By April Murphy
Christmas is now less than a month away, and shoppers have already begun the search for great gifts ideas for the kids. However, Fair Trading has issued a warning to parents to be wary of unsafe children’s toys that are on the market this year.
During the Office of Fair Trading’s (OFT) Operation Safe Christmas campaign, they have found several toys that do not meet regulation standards.
Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman said each year the OFT inspected thousands of toy lines in a bid to limit the number of dangerous items that children were exposed to over the festive season.
“Shoppers need to be aware when shopping for Christmas toys this year,” Ms Fentiman said.
The Attorney-General has said that two plush toys, a wooden alphabet puzzle, a wooden number puzzle, a magnetic number puzzle and a rainbow circle stacker have been removed from shelves after they were deemed to be a choking hazard for young children.
Also, beware of the following products
- Giant Inflatable Kiss and Sunnies Emoji by Kato Designs
- Goose Swim Ring
- Emoticon Puffer Ball – small and large
The Attorney-General said OFT inspections included shops and popup stores across Queensland.
“Considering the huge number of toy lines inspected, it’s good to see a very low number of non-compliant toys were found, which shows most manufacturers and retailers are aware of and sticking to their obligations around consumer safety,” she said.
The Queensland Government website offers many helpful hints to keep in mind when shopping for your little ones this Christmas.
For example:
• Always give your children age-appropriate toys.
• Toys that are hard-wearing are safer for your child and unlikely to release small bits that become choking hazards.
• Steer clear of toys that have sharp edges.
• As a general guide, a choking hazard is anything with small parts that are less than 31 mm in diameter and 57 mm long.
• Toys with small magnets can cause severe internal damage if swallowed.
Consumers are advised to stick to reputable brands or retailers, and if you are buying online, check information about the seller and always ensure the toy has not been banned or recalled.
For information on safety standards and product bans, visit www.productsafety.gov.au or www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading.
Any concerns about unsafe toys should be reported to the OFT at www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).