From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
MADISON, Wis. — The 33rd annual Trouble in Toyland 2018 report by the consumer group Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has been released and warns parents about some potential hazards on this year’s holiday gifts.
The report highlights some toys that the U.S. PIRG Education Fund staff examined that parents should watch out for this season. The report emphasized three warnings for parents:
- Many hazardous toys are still on the market. Our survey of just 40 toys found six slime products with dangerously high boron (borax) content and several other toys with potential hazards.
- Increasingly popular internet-connected toys may imperil the privacy of children and even violate consumer protection laws.
- Check list of recalls published in Appendix 4. Other recalls can be found at toysafety- tips.org or cpsc.gov/recalls.
Toy survey findings: Borin
Toy survey findings: Small Parts
The methodology behind testing for toxic chemicals, U.S. PIRG Education Fund staff purchased dozens of toys sold at Amazon and Walmart.com and tested by an accredited laboratory. Toys that were tested were re-tested to confirm results. Although the high content of borin does not violate the law, the reports warns that it is a public health concern that should worry consumers.
For small parts, which could potentially be a choking hazard, the toys were tested for potential choking hazards, looking for the following problems:
1. A toy labeled for children under three containing small parts or breaking easily into small parts.
2. A toy containing small parts or small balls, but intended for children under three.
3. A toy containing small parts or small balls and intended for children over three, but lacking the statutory choke hazard warning or having a choke hazard warning that is obscured or too small.
4. A toy intended for children under six years that lacks the statutory choke hazard warning and appears to fail the “use and abuse” test, breaking easily into small parts that fit in the choke tube.
To read full report, click here.