November is Safe Toys & Gifts Month. Since December is the biggest gift-giving month in the world, it’s important to keep safety in mind as you’re shopping for the little ones in your life.
Between April 1, 2011 and November 9, 2022 there were 29,268 cases of toy-related injuries, with 63% occurring in males and 37% in females. The number of toy-related injuries by age group are: less than 1 year at 3.5% and 1 to 4 years at 45.4%.
Buying toys and other gifts are one of the exciting parts of the holiday season. I mean, who doesn’t love watching a friend or family member open a gift and seeing their eyes light up with excitement?! In all the eagerness, it’s easy to forget about simple safety. So before making any purchases this year, keep safety in mind.
Safe Toys And Gifts Month
Here are some ways to be sure you’re shopping safely this year.
In Canada, all toys are regulated to make sure they are safe for use by children. Even so, unsafe toys can make their way onto store shelves and into homes. And sometimes the ways toys are used can expose children to hazards. Being informed and aware of potential risks will help you protect your child’s health and safety. Here are some general tips to follow:
- When buying toys, look for sturdy and well-made ones that include the manufacturer’s contact information.
- Read and follow all age labels and safety messages. Toys for older children may have small parts or other hazards that make them unsafe for younger children.
- Keep small toys and any loose parts/accessories out of the reach of children under three years of age, as these are choking hazards for children who still put non-food items into their mouths.
- Repair or throw away broken toys. Check often for loose parts, broken pieces or sharp edges that could harm children.
- Keep all toys – especially plush and soft toys – away from heat sources like stoves, fireplaces and heaters.
While you are out shopping for the special little ones in your life, remember those that others may not have toys to celebrate the season. Several organizations are running toy drives for the season. In Hamilton there is CHCH and City Kidz. In the Toronto area, the Fire Fighters are collecting toys. Toy drives are excellent opportunities to teach children the values of empathy and compassion. When kids actively participate in donating toys or volunteering for these events, they learn the importance of giving back to their community.
Wishing you and your family a very merry (and injury-free) holiday season!
Kathryn Davies
President Owner
