Toy safety has improved since a 2008 law strengthened testing requirements and made recalls easier, but a California group still finds risky toys everywhere from dollar stores to big chains.
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This year that report highlights 22 toys that they say pose a potential hazard for kids. They posted a complete list of this year’s unsafe toys here.
“This jump rope which we found right here in Austin contains 10,000 parts per million which are ten times the limit”, said Melissa Cubria with TexPIRG. The organization found ellipsoid magnets that are slightly larger than the small parts cylinder that is used for testing.
Toxic hazards- Three toys tested had high level of chromium, which can cause allergic reactions.
Magic Towel (football and baseball shaped) found at Dollar Tree has a small ball that could be a choking hazard.
Last, but not least are the toys that make noise that can damage little ears.
Because youngsters like to put things in their mouths, Basmajian said MassPIRG is also concerned about small rounded toys that look like food.
Some even have high levels of toxins. When two or more power magnets are swallowed they can cause life threatening injuries because their attractive forces draw them together inside the body, according to MassPIRG.
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Vtech Smart Wheels, Vtech Smart Animals, Vtech Spin and Learn Color Flashlight, Fisher Price Click N Learn, and Leap Frog Fridge Phonics all found at Target had decibel levels PIRG said was too loud for children, especially young ones who still are developing their hearing.
