Protecting Your Children from Injury
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it is also a critical time to focus on your children’s safety.
As families search for the perfect gift to delight the little ones in the house, it’s no surprise that December marks Safe Toys and Gifts Month, reminding us to choose toys that bring smiles without risks.
At Rapid Care ER, we understand the importance of your child’s safety. That’s why we offer a caring guide to keep your family safe and happy during this festive season
Not All Toys Offer Fun and Games- Toy-Related Injuries Statistics
According to the CPSC’s latest Toy-Related Injuries report, in 2023:
- An estimated 154,700 children aged 12 and younger visited the ER for toy-related injuries.
- Tragically, ten children died in toy-related incidents last year.
The leading causes of these deaths included:
- Choking on small balls or crayons
- Drownings linked to flotation toys
- Entrapment inside toy chests
- Ingestion of water beads
When it comes to injuries, the most common diagnoses were:
- Lacerations
- Contusions/abrasions and fractures
- Internal injuries and ingestion-related injuries for children under 5
These unfortunate facts highlight the importance of toy safety during the gift-giving season.
Toy Safety Tips for Parents and Caregivers
When shopping for toys this holiday season, follow these guidelines to protect your little ones:
Choose Age-Appropriate Toys
Always check the age recommendations on the toy packaging and choose an age-appropriate one. Remember, toys designed for older children may have small parts that can pose choking hazards.
Always Inspect Toys for Safety Hazards
Avoid toys with small, detachable parts, sharp edges, or strings longer than 6 inches.
Check for Recalls
Visit CPSC’s recall website to ensure the toys you are considering purchasing are free from defects or safety issues.
Supervise Playtime
Always supervise young children, especially when they play with toys that pose potential risks, such as balloons, small balls, magnetic building sets, or flotation toys.
Store Toys Safely
To prevent entrapment, avoid toy chests without safety hinges or ventilation holes.
If you use open shelves to display your child’s toys, ensure they are of sufficient height and that children cannot climb on chairs or nearby furniture.
Top Toy-Related Medical Emergencies and How to Avoid Them Choking
Small parts, balls, or marbles are a leading cause of choking incidents. Avoid giving these toys to children under 3 years old.
Ingestion Injuries
Water beads, small magnets, and batteries can cause severe internal injuries if swallowed. Keep such toys out of the reach of small children.
Lacerations and Fractures
Toys with sharp edges or heavy pieces can cause cuts and fractures. Inspect toys for damage and avoid those with potential hazards.
Drowning Risks
Flotation toys are not life-saving devices. Always supervise children closely around water, even if they have flotation devices.
Warning Signs of a Medical Emergency – When to Head to the ER
Knowing when to seek emergency care can save a child’s life. Visit our ER immediately if your child:
- Shows signs of choking or is having difficulty breathing
- Swallows a toy or small part
- Experiences severe abdominal pain or vomiting after ingesting something
- Has a deep cut that won’t stop bleeding
- Displays symptoms of a concussion, such as confusion, nausea, or loss of consciousness
Rapid Care ER, Here for Your Family!
At Rapid Care ER, your family’s safety is our priority. We have special pediatric examination rooms to make your child feel comfortable during emergencies.
As a reminder, our facilities are open 24/7 throughout the holidays, ensuring our expert medical care is always available when you need it most.
This Holiday Season, let’s work together to ensure that every toy under the tree brings nothing but joy.
Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!