When you buy a product for your child, you expect it to be safe to use. That is an actual basic assumption, but the scary thing is that toy manufacturers do not always prioritize safety and age-appropriateness.
Toys are a normal and healthy part of growing up. They promote creativity while giving much-needed entertainment to children. However, not all toys are completely healthy; in fact, some can pose serious risks if they malfunction. Defective toys pose a number of risks, so parents should be aware of the harm that they could cause. If your child is injured when playing with a defective toy, do not wait; click here to hire a lawyer.
How do defective toys and other products pose dangers to children?
The following are some of the dangers that defective items for children may pose:
- The dangers of potential choking hazards
Any toys or other items for young children with small parts could pose a choking hazard. This is a significant worry for babies and toddlers, who often place items in their mouths.
As a result, any product designed for young children (or removable pieces of such products) should be larger than the tube of cardboard from a roll of paper towels. This size accurately depicts a child’s mouth and windpipe.
- Sharp edge injuries.
Defective toys with pointy edges or points can result in cuts, scratches, and puncture wounds. Sharp edges are more likely to be found in toys constructed of low-quality materials or with manufacturing faults.
- The risk of exposure to harmful substances
The makeup of a children’s product can often be more harmful than its design. By this, we mean that an item could be dangerous or contain unsafe components. One of the most serious issues is the risk of lead exposure and lead poisoning among children.
Companies should take great care when designing their products, ensuring all of their parts and supplies are non-toxic. Monitoring and quality control must be in place at all stages of production.
- The risk of electric shocks and burns
As we move deeper into the world of smartphones and tablets, there are more electronic goods for children. One major issue is the risk of electric shocks or burns. These electronics can generate significant quantities of heat during regular operation, which can hurt kids if they lack caution, and the same holds true for accidental electric shocks. Toys with batteries or electrical components could pose a risk if they malfunction. Defective wiring or poorly built battery compartments might result in electric shocks or burns.
