Some groups like W.A.T.C.H and U.S. PIRG , the federation of state Public Interest Research Groups (PIRGs) though, think toy safety is an area long overdue for an overhaul.
The leading causes of toy-related fatalities among children include choking and aspiration of toy parts, according to the CPSC.
Between 1990 and 2005, at least 166 children died after choking or asphyxiating on a toy or toy part; nine children died in 2005 alone, noted U.S. PIRG in its report Trouble in Toyland: The 22nd Annual Survey of Toy Safety .
Tiny magnets also are a threat to small children, U.S.PIRG reported. Over the last two years, one child died and many others were gravely injured after swallowing small but powerful magnets now commonly used in magnetic building toys, other toys, and magnetic jewelry. If a child swallows more than one of these magnets, the magnets can attach to each other and cause intestinal perforation or blockage, U.S.PIRG noted.
"Don’t assume a toy is safe it because it is for sale in the U.S."
The presence of lead paint in toys has received a lot of attention recently, but has been a concern for public interest groups for a number of years.
"Lead is clearly on a lot of peoples’ minds," said Swartz. "It’s not a new issue and there have been a lot of recalls. Now people are uncovering problems that should have been corrected years ago. It’s frustrating because consumers have to rely on the government and manufacturers to uncover this type of problem."
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Another issue that needs more monitoring is the noise level of some toys, U.S. PIRG reported. Almost 15 percent of U.S. children ages 6 to 17 show signs of hearing loss. While the American Society for Testing and Materials in November 2003 adopted a voluntary acoustics standard for toys, setting the loudness threshold for most toys at 90 decibels, U.S. PIRG noted in its report that it found several toys currently on store shelves that may not meet the standards. Several toys tested by U.S. PIRG exceeded 100 decibels when measured at close range.
As part of its efforts to educate and protect consumers, W.A.T.C.H. annually releases a list of what it considers the ten worst toys of the year. The group sends out shoppers to survey the market. "The purpose of the list is to provide a list of the types of hazards -- it is not meant to be exhaustive or inclusive," Swartz said.
Lawrence, though, said that lists are not always helpful to consumers. She suggested shoppers check the government’s recall list for toys.
