With Christmas just hours away, Georgia families are being urged to make safety a priority when it comes to toys.
Safety experts say the holidays can bring joy—but also risks—if parents and gift-givers don’t take precautions. Groups like the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Safe Kids Worldwide are reminding shoppers to keep an eye out for potential hazards.
The top tip? Read the labels. Age recommendations and safety warnings aren’t just suggestions—they’re safeguards.
For toddlers, small parts are a choking hazard. That means avoiding marbles, small balls, and anything that could end up in a child’s mouth. Stuffed animals should have secure stitching and no loose parts.
Magnets are another big danger. High-powered magnetic sets can cause severe injuries if swallowed, and experts say they’re best avoided for younger kids.
Ride-on toys like scooters and bikes require helmets—no exceptions. Helmets should fit snugly and be worn every time.
Shoppers should stick to reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit toys, which may not meet safety standards. Registering toys with manufacturers and checking recalls.gov can also help parents stay informed.
Experts say secondhand toys might save money but could come with safety risks. Older toys may not meet current safety standards—or worse, they might have been recalled.
The holidays are a time for celebration, and taking a few extra safety steps now can help keep the season bright—and accident-free.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.