With the unofficial holiday shopping period getting under way later this week, a Florida consumer group is once again advising parents to be mindful of what they purchase for their children.
A simple toy may be a choking hazard, have toxic substances that could hinder long-term health problems including a loss of reproductive abilities, or emit noises that cause hearing problems, said Brad Ashwell, with Florida Public Interest Research Group.
As in previous years, choking hazards are one of the leading problems, leading to childrens deaths and a number of different accidents, Ashwell said during a news conference at the Florida Press Center on Tuesday.
The consumer advocacy groups report, Trouble in Toyland, now in its 26th edition, has been responsible for 150 toy recalls.
On this year's list are:
Toxic
Claire's "Sleep Mask."
Piggy Toes Press "Little Hands Love Book."
LL's "Whirly Wheel."
Spritz "Spritz Medals."
Hello Kitty "Hello Kitty eyeshadow/keychain."
Disney Fairies "Tinkerbell Watch."
Family Dollar "Peace Sign Bracelet."
Choking
ToySmith "Wooden block set."
Sesame Workshop "Sesame St. Doll Oscar."
Greenbrier International "Dinosaur multi-pack."
4M2U "Orange bear."
Noise
Fisher-Price Paid "Elmo's World, Talking Cell Phone."
Hotwheels "Super Stunt RAT BOMB."
Nickelodeon "Victorious Stereo Headphones."
For a full list of potentially hazardous toys, visit the Floridapirg.org website.
Reach Jim Turner at jturner@sunshinestatenews.com, (850) 727-0859, or (772) 215-9889.
