Dec 11
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Toy Safety – Electrical Toys
Toy Safety – Electrical Toys
By Lill Hawkins
Chances are that an electrical toy is on your child’s Wish List this holiday season. These toys can provide years of fun for little ones, but they can also be very dangerous – perhaps more dangerous than any other type of toy. Here are some points to consider before you buy that toy.
Age restrictions are VERY important when it comes to electric toys. It’s also important to remember that the age restriction on the package is only a minimum recommendation. You also have to take into consideration how mature your child is for her age.
Many eight year olds are mature enough to operate an electrical railroad set, but many aren’t. Only by observing and supervising your child at play will you be able to tell if they’re at the right level to handle these types of toys.
Even more than with other toys, it’s extremely important that parents read ALL the instructions that come with electric toys. Better yet, read them first and then go over them with the child who’s going to be using the toy.
Don’t just take it for granted that the child understands the directions. Ask questions and make sure that he or she understands exactly how the toy should be used.
Look for warning labels and go over them with your child. Keep the labels and instructions with the toy, so that they won’t get lost. You may want to refer to them in future.
Supervision is a must for toys that have the potential that electrical toys do for injury. Shock, burns or even electrocution are real hazards whenever anything is plugged into an electrical outlet.
For this reason, check the plug on the toy to make sure that it isn’t loose when it’s plugged in. If you must use extension cords with toys, use only approved ones and make sure that they’re used in a safe manner.
Be sure that there are no liquids in the area when children are playing with electrical toys. Also, of course, be sure to keep babies and toddlers away when electrical toys are being used by older children.
Store the toys in a dry place where younger children can’t get to them. Don’t store them in places like toy boxes where electrical components could get broken or wiring could be damaged.
Toy trains and other electrical toys can be an enjoyable part of childhood memories, but only if you make sure that they’re not misused. It’s up to you to buy safe toys and supervise their use for your child’s sake.
Find Safe Toys for everyone from toddlers to teens, along with the latest toy recall information and more at http://bestnetpages.com/safetoys
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