Mahaska Health Partnership Encourages Safe Toy Use

Mahaska Health Partnership

MAHASKA COUNTY – With the holiday season in full swing, new toys may be on your mind for the little ones in your life. However, some toys may not be suitable, depending on a child’s age or the toy’s make-up. Mahaska Health Partnership wants to remind caregivers to check new toys prior to use.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were an estimated 256,700 toy-related injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments in 2013. Of these, approximately 73% happened to children under the age of 15. MHP Pediatrician Dr. John O’Brien strongly encourages the public to be mindful of a child’s age when buying toys.

“Children are very curious individuals,” Dr. O’Brien said. “They will put anything in their mouths and very little caution is used when there are exciting new toys involved. It is our responsibility as adults to choose toys that are both age-appropriate and safe.”

The CPSC recommends keeping the child’s age and ability in mind when choosing gifts. “Children will get frustrated quickly if the toy is above their comprehension level,” Dr. O’Brien explained. “Keep them age-appropriate whenever possible. If your child receives a gift that is too advanced, there is no harm in putting it away for future use.”

Dr. O’Brien also suggested looking for the letters “ASTM” on toys prior to purchase. “This designation means the product meets the national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Also, watch out for toys that seem flimsy or have parts that are easily swallowed. Children can and will break these items, which can result in choking or bodily harm.”

Certain toy parts should be examined prior to being given to small children. “Button batteries can look like candy to small children, so make sure that all batteries are installed prior to use,” Dr. O’Brien advised. “Also check the battery storage compartment to ensure that the lid is securely latched. Children with small fingers can get curious and open them, gaining access to the batteries.

“Magnets that are part of an older child’s toy can be swallowed by a younger sibling,” Dr. O’Brien explained. “They can cause significant damage internally before symptoms arise, so make sure to keep them out of reach. If you have children of different ages, it is important to have separate play areas so toys stay with the appropriately aged children.”

While the holiday season is a time meant for joy and celebration, safety must also be a concern. By looking for toys that are sturdy and meant for a specific age group, the risk of an emergency visit is greatly reduced. “We all want our kids to be happy and healthy. If we work to provide safer toys and keep hazardous items out of reach, some of the stress surrounding the holiday season can be reduced, allowing everyone to enjoy this special time.”

Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit www.mahaskahealth.org.