December is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. Always remember to consider the safety and age range of toys when buying those special items for your loved ones.
There are 3 important ways you can protect your child’s eyes from injuries while playing with toys:
- Only buy toys meant for their age.
- Show them how to use their toys safely.
- Keep an eye on them when they play.
Before you purchase a toy:
- Read all warnings and instructions on the box.
- Ask yourself if the toy is right for your child’s ability and age.
- Avoid purchasing toys with sharp or rigid points, spikes, rods, or dangerous edges.
- Check the lenses and frames of children’s sunglasses; many can break and cause injuries.
- Buy toys that will withstand impact and not break into dangerous shards.
- Look for the letters “ASTM.” This designation means the product meets the national safety standards set by ASTM International.
- Avoid toys that shoot or include parts that fly off. Remember that BB guns are NOT toys.
Before letting children play with toys:
- Inspect toys for safe, sturdy construction.
- Explain how to use the toy.
- Fix or throw away broken toys.
Always:
- Keep young children away from toys meant for older children.
- Supervise your children while playing.
- Store toys properly after play to avoid risks or falls.
- Supervise children’s craft projects (scissors and glue can be extremely dangerous to a child’s eyesight).
- Have children wear the right eye protection for sports (face shields, helmets, eyeguards).
Source: PreventBlindness
