New report warns of 'dangerous' toys


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SALT LAKE CITY — Many people are getting ready for Black Friday shopping, but before people make their purchases, they should be aware of a new report released about dangerous toys.

Not every toy on the shelf is safe, especially for babies and toddlers, and the biggest hazard for toys in 2013 is choking, according to a new U.S. Public Interest Research Group. The group recently released their research "Trouble in Toyland."

Magnets were at the top of the list of unsafe toys. If children swallow multiple magnets, they can attach to each other and tear through tissue, according to the report.

Batteries were also listed as a major hazard for young children. If batteries are swallowed they can leave dangerous acids in the body.

Primary Children's Hospital child advocacy manager, Janet Brooks, said before parents buy a toy they should compare it to the size of their child's throat.

"These little test tubes, and this is very similar to a toilet paper roll or paper towel roll," Brooks said of a toy. "But if you could fit items inside of here, then you want to make sure you're not having toys exposed to children less than 3 years old of age.

The Public Interest Research Group report also says that parents need to pay attention to the labels on toys. If a label states that the toy is not appropriate for children under the age of three, then parents need to take it seriously.

The report pointed out another hazard of toys that are too loud for the developing ears of babies or toddlers.

"Children love noise and sounds but as parents, we want to be cautious that we're not buying something that's too loud that can damage," Brooks said.

There's a long list of toys that haven't been recalled, but advocates still advise against buying them. The list includes a new Little Pet Shop and a Fisher Price Laugh and Learn remote.

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Nadine Wimmer

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