Parents want the best for their children, including the opportunity to have fun while developing coordination and creativity. While countless toys exist to entertain and educate children, manufacturers must hold high standards to ensure their safety, even in the hands of small children.
Every parent should review the Toy Hazard Recalls list provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to identify any potentially-dangerous flaws in the toys their children use every day. The following recent recalls illustrate common issues that can arise:
- Range Rider Ride-On Toy Cars: A September 12, 2012 voluntary recall of two models by Bluestem Brands, Inc. may have prevented burns to the children after nine individuals reported batteries that smoked or caught fire, melting battery connections or scorching plastic.
- Three-wheeled Micro Mini Scooter: Manufacturer Micro-Mobility Ltd. voluntarily recalled this product on August 21, 2012, due to the possibility of breakage of the plastic platform covering the front wheel base, which could cause lacerations to children.
- Imaginarium 4-Sided Activity Center: Toys R Us Inc. voluntarily recalled the toy on May 30, 2012, after receiving eight reports of knobs detaching, which pose a choking hazard to small children.
In all these product recall examples, the CSPC reported no injuries, possibly thanks to early reporting of flaws. But when toys break or have a substandard design, they can cause severe injury or even death. In fact, over 18 percent of the current recall list of 900 items involves choking hazards. Always inspect all toys for potential dangers. Even if your child escapes injury, report flaws to the CPSC. And seek help from an experienced personal injury attorney to pursue fair compensation if your child is injured by a defective toy.