Keeping a Safe Eye on Dangerous Toys

Eyeing some new toys for the kids? As you stroll down the toy aisle with that wish list in hand, be on the lookout for products that could hurt your child's eyes.

Each year, thousands of children are treated in emergency rooms for eye injuries caused by dangerous or age-inappropriate toys. When shopping, remember that children spend a lot of time playing with their toys, and you can't always be there to supervise.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when buying toys:

• Always choose toys that are safe for your child's age or developmental phase. The appropriate age will be indicated on the package. When a relative or friend gives your child a gift, be sure to check the packaging for safety.
• Make sure the toy doesn't have sharp or rigid points, spikes, rods or dangerous edges.
• Also keep an eye out for small parts. That tiny Barbie doll shoe could be a danger to a small child.
• Don't give children non-powdered guns such as BB guns, pellet guns, air rifles, potato guns or paint guns. The American Academy of Pediatrics characterizes these items as weapons and should not be considered toys for children or adolescents.
• If your older child is playing with a chemistry or woodworking set, provide safety goggles.
• Warn older children to keep their toys away from younger ones.
• Don't give your child toys that fly or shoot projectiles.
• Regularly inspect toys to make sure they are in good shape.
• Store toys in a toy box or on shelves to keep them from becoming tripping hazards.
• Check toys regularly to make sure they aren't broken. If they are, throw them out.
• Supervise crafts projects, especially if children are using sewing needles, glue or scissors.

Signs of eye injuries may include:

• Pain.
• A cut or torn eyelid.
• One eye that does not move as well as the other.
• One eye that sticks out.
• Strange pupil size or shape.
• Blood in the eye.
• Something in the eye that you can't remove.

Minor eye irritation often can be treated with over-the-counter eyewash or by resting the eye. If you suspect a serious problem, call the doctor immediately or go to the emergency room. Don't touch the eye, and avoid pressure on the eye by keeping it covered with a paper cup.

Related Articles What Is a Safe Toy? Holiday Safety Tips Phony Contact Lenses, Real Danger

External Sources Prevent Blindness America The American Academy of Ophthalmology

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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