WASHINGTON (AP) — Check those toys for hazards before they go under the holiday tree.
Consumer advocates are warning shoppers to look out for small parts, loud sounds, soft plastics and lead contamination. The warning comes in the U.S. Public Interest Research Group's annual "Trouble in Toyland" report.
The report says choking is the number one cause of toy-related deaths and injuries. The group's Elizabeth Hitchcock says not all toys carry the required choking warning. If a toy can fit into a toilet paper tube it's too small for children under three.
The group focused on loud toys because nearly 15 percent of children between 6 and 17 years old show signs of hearing loss. Another hazard, lead contamination, can cause learning disabilities and, at very high levels, seizures, coma and death.
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Elizabeth Hitchcock
Public health advocate Elizabeth Hitchcock says hazards are are lessening, but they're not where they need to be.
