BWG Consumer Alert: December 2011

Buying Safe Toys This Holiday Season

If you are buying for young children this year, we urge you to shop carefully to avoid dangerous toys.

Last year, nearly 182,000 children were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for toy-related injuries, such as falls, strangulation, lacerations and deaths. Many toys causing injuries are recalled, but there are many others that remain on store shelves. What many consumers do not realize is the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does not test all toys before they go to market and not all toys meet CPSC standards.

This makes it critical to be an informed shopper and remember these safety guidelines:

Age-appropriate. Buy age-appropriate toys. Most toys are required to have a label with age instructions.
Read Labels. Always read the label before purchase.
Small Parts. Never buy toys with small parts that pose a choking hazard, such as marbles and balls with a diameter of 1.75 inches or less.
Magnets. Do not buy toys with magnets or adult gifts with magnets in which children may have access.

Click here for our full list of toy buying tips and to learn more about dangerous toys on the market this holiday shopping season.

Holiday Decorations

Setting up holiday decorations is one of the season's joys. But it is important to slow down, plan and make sure you are buying materials from reputable stores and merchants. Also before buying, make sure you are able to care for large decorations such as Christmas trees, which require daily care. Our tips for keeping your family safe:

Christmas Tree Watering

Make sure you have an adequate size tree water stand.
Learn how much watering your tree needs. In general, you should use one quart of water per day for each stem diameter. Ask your local fire department for more instructions.
Remove your tree in a timely manner to avoid letting it dry out. Many communities offer special Christmas tree pickups after the holiday.
Another option is to cut up your tree branches and place them over a garden.
Do not leave your tree outside unattended overnight for teenagers and vandals to find.

Click here for more tips on Christmas tree holiday lights and holiday candles.

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