Nov 24, 2009 12:58 pm US/Eastern
MASSPIRG: Some Toys Pose A Danger To Children
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
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MASSPIRG says the Fisher Price Laugh and Learning Phone is excessively loud. The toy has a maximum decibel measurement of 82 dB at 25 cm. According to MASSPIRG, prolonged exposure to nose above 85 dB can cause hearing loss.
WBZ
Child safety advocates are urging parents to be vigilant when choosing toys this holiday season.
MASSPIRG, The Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group has released its annual survey about toy safety. The group found many toys on store shelves that violate regulations and could pose a danger to children.
Some toys contain the chemical, phthalate which softens plastic. The Consumer Product Safety Commission banned levels higher than 0.1 percent. But MASSPIRG found products containing concentrations up to 7.2 percent.
Advocates also warn parents about toys with small parts which could cause children to choke. One recommended test parents can do, if the parts fit inside a cardboard toilet paper roll then there could be a choking hazard.
Dr. Lois Lee of Children's Hospital says many tragedies can be prevented if parents pay attention. "Every shift I work in the emergency room I see preventable injuries but by knowing the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommendations, carefully reading labels on toys and inspecting the parts, are all an important part to make sure your children are playing with safe toys."
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has established new regulations in a variety of areas including lead content in toys. But despite new laws, many questionable toys may still be available.
"But there's no magic wand to fix the CPSC," said Ramon Bullard of MASSPIRG. "And making products safer won't happen overnight."
Parents can go to
ToySafety.net or
ToySafety.Mobi to check which toys are dangerous.
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