Kids love toys, and with the holidays just around the corner, many Texas injury lawyers and other grownups are buying toys for the kids they love. But even the most popular toy of this year’s holiday season may leave your favorite little one in tears if it causes injury.
Here are some easy ways to choose toys that are safe and appropriate for the kids you love, so that you can keep the holidays happy and prevent injuries.
1. Read labels carefully. Most toys have labels that give important safety information, including age recommendations, warnings about small parts, and information about what the toy is made of and whether it is flame-retardant or flame-resistant. Choose toys that can withstand flames that are made of materials safe for the child and that are appropriate for the child’s age and skill level.
2. Give new toys, not antiques. New toys made in the U.S. must be painted with lead-free paint and must meet other strict standards for the restriction of hazardous or toxic materials. Older toys may not meet these standards. Choose new toys or toys made before 1978 to avoid the risk of lead paint, and treat antiques as family heirlooms, not as playthings.
3. Choose non-toxic art materials. If you buy crayons, paints or other art materials for the emerging artist in your favorite child, choose materials that are labeled “non-toxic.” Crayons and paints that conform to “ASTM D-4236” have been tested by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
4. Look for durable, sturdy toys. Toys that break, crack, rip or lose small parts pose greater risks of injury to children of all ages. Look for durable, sturdy toys that will stand up to years of play. You’ll reduce the risk of injury and increase the chances that the toy will survive to be loved for many years to come.
If your child has been harmed by a defective child product, please contact a Dallas product liability lawyer at Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP. You may be entitled to compensation from the liable manufacturer.
