McAsey Encourages Parents to Review Toy Safety This Holiday Season

Toys are a holiday staple. They also are a sure-fire risk for injuries if parents/guardians don’t take safety precautions.

And State Rep. Emily McAsey is encouraging families to observe National Safe Toy and Gift Month during the holiday season by taking extra time to review the gifts their children receive, according to a news release issued by her office.

“It’s wonderful to see children’s faces light up when they open a present,” McAsey stated in the news release. “However, we must be aware of and help prevent the possible safety risks these gifts pose, especially to younger children.”

How big are the risks? McAsey cited these statistics:

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2012 the number of toy-related injuries resulting in emergency room visits across the country totaled 265,000. And, in 2012, the CPSC reported 11 toy-related deaths in the United States involving children younger than 15.

“With nearly 100 products being recalled last year alone, it is extremely difficult for any family to keep up with all those items,” Attorney General Lisa Madigan stated in the news release. “That is why we continue to provide this easy-to-use resource guide for your holiday shopping.”

The Safe Shopping Guide can be viewed at illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/consusmers/2013_Safe_Shopping_Guide.pdf.

Madigan also has set up a Product Recall Hotline: 888-414-7678 or 800-964-3013.

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