The Christmas countdown has begun: Time to make your toy and gift safety list and check it twice

This holiday season it’s smart to take the extra steps to ensure you are giving safe toys and gifts to children, advises California Poison Control System.

Coinciding with the festive shopping season, “Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness” month runs throughout December. This annual observance raises awareness about selecting safe, age-appropriate presents for the kids on your, and Santa’s, list.

Every year, thousands of children end up spending part of their holiday festivities in the hospital because of a toy-related injury. The latest figures from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s most recent “Toy-Related Deaths and Injuries” report highlighted that in 2023 there were nearly 155,000 children 12 years or younger treated in emergency departments because of toy-related injuries. Unfortunately, 10 children died due to toy-related incidents.

“An accident-free holiday starts with knowing what to look out for when selecting toys and gifts. It can make a big difference in preventing injuries,” said Dr. Rais Vohra, Medical Director for the Fresno/Madera Division of CPCS. “Additionally, it’s important to purchase from reputable sources and check for recalls.”

Seven tips to help you choose safe toys and gifts
1. Select items that are appropriate for your child’s age, skill level, and ability.
2. Read all labels, warnings, and instructions on the box. Look for proof that toys have passed a safety inspection, such as American Society for Testing and Materials.
3. Carefully vet artificial intelligence toys — some AI-enabled toys can engage in disturbing conversations or collect data and record voices.
4. Choose safety gear (including helmets) for bikes, scooters and other toys your child rides.
5. Avoid toys with dangerous edges, sharp or rigid points, spikes or rods.
6. Make sure toys can withstand impact and not break into shards.
7. Be mindful of toys that use “button” batteries or magnets — they are a potential choking hazard and can also cause internal damage if swallowed.

About CPCS
Call Poison Control at (800) 222-1222 (number is the same in all states) for questions about poison encounters. Trained pharmacists, nurses and other providers are available to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is free, confidential and interpreters are available. Follow CPCS on Facebook, on YouTube @californiapoisoncontrol, and on X @poisoninfo. Sign up for The California Poison Safety Post, California Poison Control System’s quarterly electronic newsletter, by visiting calpoison.org/newsletters. CPCS is part of the University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy and is responsible to the California Emergency Medical Services Authority.