For Immediate Release

Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Andover Health Division Reminds Residents About Toy Safety

ANDOVER — As residents continue their holiday shopping this month, the Andover Health Division is reminding residents who may be shopping for young children of several safety tips to prevent injury.

“We want to make sure everyone has a safe and happy holiday this season,” said Thomas Carbone, Andover Director of Public Health. “Please remember to be cautious with your gift-giving by making sure all toys are age-appropriate and do not pose a safety risk.”

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2015 there were an estimated 254,200 toy-related injuries treated in emergency rooms. Of these injuries, 73 percent happened to children younger than 15 years of age, 69 percent happened to children 12 years of age or younger, and 35 percent happened to children under the age of 5.

The Andover Health Division recommends the following tips provided by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• Be sure to make smart purchases based on age, ability, and interest of the child.
• Remember to cognizant of label warnings.
• Keep deflated balloons away from children younger than 8 years old. Discard broken balloons at once.
• Avoid small balls and toys with small parts for children younger than age 3.
• Get the correct size helmets and safety gear for children using bikes, scooters, skateboards and skates. Ensure they are worn properly while riding or skating.
• High powered magnet sets are dangerous and should be kept away from children under the age of 14.
• Building and play sets with small magnets should also be kept away from small children.

Continue to stay informed about safety information at www.cpsc.gov.

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