COLUMBUS, Ohio — Unwrapping toys from Santa should not end with a trip to the emergency room.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says 159,500 children, 14 years old and younger, were hospitalized in 2022. Head injuries made up 47% of all visits across every age group.
Prevent Blindness Ohio declared December Safe Toys and Gift Awareness Month to help shoppers pick the safest gifts for children. The nonprofit organization says 50% of vision loss is preventable.
There are steps you can take to protect children from dangerous toys.
“When you get the toy inspect it. Make sure the toys for young children are made of durable plastic or wood, with no sharp objects or points,” said David Monder, vice president for programs and government affairs at Prevent Blindness Ohio. “Check the toys for broken parts, throw out broken toys if you can't repair them safely. And most importantly, read all the instructions, the warnings, and the suggested age levels on the packaging.”
An easy way to ensure a toy is safe is by looking for the American Society for Testing and Materials symbol on the side.
Monder says to avoid buying toys with projectiles for eye safety. If you are gifting sports equipment, make sure you give eye protection and helmets with the present.
“By taking some precautionary steps to ensure that the toys you purchase are safe and age-appropriate for children, you can help ensure that the holiday season is festive and bright,” said Monder.
For more eye health safety resources, visit Prevent Blindness Ohio.