Guidance from

The Child Accident Prevention Trust

Watch out for dangerous toys this Christmas

Lots of us will be doing our shopping online this Christmas thanks to Covid-19 restrictions and shop closures.

Buying presents online – especially children’s toys – can also be a great way to discover some bargains and save money.

However, the number of dangerous toys sold online to unsuspecting families is on the increase – so it’s good to be aware when buying presents this year.

For example, did you know that if you buy a toy from a third party seller via one of the well-known online marketplaces, it might not meet UK safety standards?

Online marketplaces are simply offering a shop window to sellers around the world and aren’t legally required to check if a toy is safe before allowing it to be sold.

Some of these toys may be dangerous and, as a result, could cause serious injuries to children.

Dangers can include:

• Magnets so strong they can burn through the gut if swallowed
• Long cords which can strangle a child
• Dangerous levels of chemicals
• Small parts that can choke or suffocate
• Easy access to button batteries that can get stuck in a child’s food pipe, cause internal bleeding and even death.

The Child Accident Prevention Trust is sharing tips to help everyone buy toys safely this Christmas.

If you are able to, they suggest parents buy direct via the websites of well-known brand names.

Or if you’re buying from an online marketplace, enter a reputable brand name when you search for the toy you want to be sure it’s safe.

Remember, toys aren’t checked for safety before they’re sold by an online marketplace.

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is – it costs manufacturers money to make toys safe. Try to find something you can be more sure about.

Keep in touch for more safety tips www.facebook.com/ChildAccidentPreventionTrust

Shop safely and have a very happy Christmas!