Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s pediatricians want parents who will be buying toys this holiday season to follow some guidelines that can help ensure the safety of loved ones.

They warn parents to check that painted toys are decorated with lead-free paints. Teddy bears and stuffed animals should have stitched eyes, to avoid choking hazards in small children. Any fabrics children will use should be classified as flame resistant or flame retardant. And the packaging on crayons and paints should read ‘non-toxic’ and ‘ASTM D-4236.’

Pediatricians Kathleen Terrence and Scott Spicer say parents should pay close attention to age specifications printed on toy packaging. “Young children, under 5 years of age, explore items by putting them in their mouths, so it’s important to avoid toys with parts that can be pulled or chewed off. Even under the closest supervision, these risks far outweigh any benefits. In addition, items with cords for pulling or dragging could be potential strangulation hazards,” said Dr. Terrence.

“Grade-schoolers, over 5 years of age, are now beginning to dive into sporting events and higher-risk activities,” Dr. Spicer noted. “When purchasing the perfect present for this age range, consider safety gear as an add-on. Education on the safe use of toys is essential when it comes to proper helmet use, toy guns or plastic swords, and toys that use any form of electricity. Teaching kids to put toys away after use and apply regular preventive maintenance can make all the difference when it comes to safety,” said Spicer.

Family members and friends may not realize that their well-intended gift could pose a risk to a child, so it’s up to the caretaker to determine what’s appropriate. In the event that a gift may pose a risk, it’s perfectly acceptable to show gratitude while explaining that the present may be a little premature for the child, and it will be saved for a later date when the child can use and appreciate it as it was intended.

The doctors at Canton-Potsdam Hospital remind holiday shoppers to exercise safety throughout the year. In the event that an emergency does happen, individuals are reminded to call 911 or go to the closest emergency department. Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s emergency room is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.