With lead paint being discovered all over the place (Boppy Pillow slipcovers and Halloween costume teeth to name a few) and even brand-name toys like Go Diego Go and Barbie being recalled, buying toys can be a dangerous endeavor — just in time for Christmas! Woo hoo! But before you panic and decide to hand-whittle toys for all the kids on your list, take advantage of the recall notifcation resources available over at the Consumer Product Safety Commission (www.cpsc.gov).

The CPSC Web site offers descriptions and pictures of recalled toys (and other products) in addition to where they were available for purchase, any injuries reported and the manufacturer suggested remedy (i.e. return the product for a refund or send away for a repair kit, etc.). You can also sign up for regular e-mail alerts at www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.
Of course, you can also just take a few of the CPSC’s shopping tips to the mall this Christmas season:

• Ride-on Toys - Riding toys, skateboards and in-line skates go fast and falls could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should be sized to fit.
• Small Parts - For children younger than age three, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking.
• Magnets - For children under age six, avoid building sets with small magnets. If magnets or pieces with magnets are swallowed, serious injuries and/or death can occur.
• Projectile Toys - Projectile toys such as air rockets, darts and sling shots are for older children. Improper use of these toys can result in serious eye injuries.
• Chargers and Adapters - Charging batteries should be supervised by adults. Chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards to children.

To choose appropriate toys for children:

• Be a label reader. Look for toy labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide.
• Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child. Look for sturdy construction, such as tightly-secured eyes, noses and other potential small parts.
• For all children under 8, avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.

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