The Public Interest Research Group released its annual Trouble In Toyland report Thursday.
For 35 years the Trouble in Toyland report highlights toys that can pose a danger to children
The group test toys for noise, choking hazards, harmfulness, and toxicity.
Illinois PIRG Education Fund Director Abe Scarr says when shopping online, make sure and read the fine print because the description may not be accurate.
“The warning label says not for kids under 3, but the product description highlights it as if it’s a fun gift for a 2-year-old and we found lots of examples like this when we would search for gift ideas for 1 or 2 year old’s for products that are not safe for children under 3 but advertised or described as a good idea for kids at that age.”
The group also warns that bluetooth connected toys can be vulnerable to data security issues.
Representatives from the toy industry say safety measures are in place to protect children.
In a statement, the Toy Association pointed to regulations and other measures.
"U.S. toy safety requirements include more than 100 rigorous standards and tests to ensure that toys are safe. All toys, regardless of where they are made, must comply with these standards, which go above and beyond those for other consumer products. There are strict limits for lead and other chemicals in toys, internationally emulated limits on sound level output, a highly effective small parts regulation that was developed with the help of pediatricians, and strict standards prohibiting the use of strong magnets in any toy part that is small enough to be swallowed."
You can find more information at www.PlaySafe.org.
