Child safety at home
Keeping children safe around toys
Things to look out for when buying toys.
Buying toys that are safe
Buying toys from a well-known and reputable company should mean the products you buy are safe. However, you should always take caution and double-check yourself.
Purchasing goods from online marketplaces, markets or discount stores may be unsafe. They may stock their items from countries with lower toy standards.
There are a couple of quality standard marks you can look out for. These help you ensure the products or toys you are buying are safe.
Any toy sold in the EU must have a CE mark by law. Manufacturers put this to show the product complies with European safety legislation.
A Lion mark means the manufacturer is a member of the British Toy and Hobby Association. This mark means they have created it to a high standard of safety and quality.
It is important to remember that these marks could be fake and used to make counterfeit products seem safe. Use your judgment when looking at these marks. Consider where you are purchasing from and how much you are paying.
Due to their small size, button batteries can pose a very serious risk to babies and young children.
Most button batteries if swallowed will pass through the body safely and without problems. However, button batteries can be lethal if they are swallowed and get trapped in your child's food pipe.
If a button battery does get stuck it can react with saliva. This can cause some very serious problems and lead to death if untreated.
For more information on button battery safety and a video showing the possible reaction if swallowed, take a look at the CAPT website. They also have advice on what to do if your child swallows a battery.
Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) has lots more information and advice on keeping your child safe around toys. This includes:
- What toys are suitable for your child
- Advice for keeping toys safe
- Top tips for some popular or dangerous toys