Being a parent is one of the most nerve-wracking experiences you can go through. Being responsible for the life of a little one brings about all kinds of new fears and precautions you never even dreamed about before becoming a parent. In fact, there are many dangers lurking right in your child’s toy box or playroom that could have dangerous consequences. While many of the dangers have forced recalls, there are still several products on the market that could pose dangers to your little one. Here are some things to look out for and help keep your child safe during play time.
Arts and Crafts
What child doesn’t enjoy an extremely messy craft activity? While most art supplies marketed to children meet the strict non-toxic guidelines, quite often, children are allowed to use materials that parents have no idea could cause risks. Take for instance, raw beans and noodles are commonly used in children’s art products. Many do not realize that raw kidney beans can be poisonous if accidentally ingested. Also, many craft paints could potentially contain lead or other poisonous ingredients. Check ingredients before a craft and be sure your kids know not to eat anything they are creating.
Dangerous Toys
There are several toys you should ban from the play room. We all know the dangers toys with small parts or toys with long strings can pose. These types of toys still cause many accidental deaths of small children every year. Experts recommend that parents buy a small parts tester, which can be purchased at most baby specialty stores. If a toy can fit into this small plastic tube then it has the potential to become lodged in a child’s windpipe. There are also plenty of other choking hazards besides small toys in your house. Be sure to be mindful of window blind cords and small parts of hinges and jewelry.
Another hazard that can be easily baby proofed is top-heavy furniture. Tall pieces of furniture should be secured to the wall to prevent them from tipping over on your child. Children are curious beings and will not hesitate to climb up a piece of furniture to reach a toy or other object out of reach.
Recalled Toys
Every year several toys are recalled and taken off the market after causing deaths or serious injuries to children. With so many recalls, you could still have these dangerous toys in your house and have no idea. Stay up to date with the latest toy recalls on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website. One of the most recent huge recalls to hit the toy industry was the hoverboard. Several companies were forced to take their hoverboards off the market after many people claimed there was a fire risk.
Hidden Germs
Germs and getting dirty seem to be a big part of childhood. However, there are some instances were these germs can cause serious issues. Recently, several popular Sippy cups were recalled after parents discovered that mold could grow inside the cup. Many children became sick from drinking from the tainted cups. The ordeal was yet another reminder how important it is for parents for to remain vigilant at all times.
With so many hidden dangers, parents need to know that there are resources they can turn to help keep their child safe. Stay up to date with toy recalls and frequently check your house and children’s play areas for any potential dangers. Speak with your pediatrician about any dangerous health trends to watch out for. Visit your local baby store and speak with an employee about recent child safety tips. If you find yourself in an unfortunate situation with a product that has caused injury to your child, contact an Ahlander Injury Law firm. These professionals can assist you on how to handle the situation and you may be eligible for financial compensation or other retributions.