Play it safe this Christmas: toy safety tips

We want you to have the best and the most safe time this Christmas. Amongst all the festivities, it can be easy to forget the small things, but when unwrapping gifts it can be the small toys that cause the largest health risks for our little ones. To help you, we’ve put together some essential tips to ensure playtime stays safe this festive season.

Button batteries

Button batteries look like small silver round buttons. Many toys, remotes and small batteries use button batteries. If swallowed, these batteries can cause severe internal burns within minutes, and you need to call 999 immediately.

Always check that battery compartments are securely closed, and keep loose or spare batteries well out of reach of young children.

Water beads

Water beads are a popular sensory toy, they are colourful jelly-like balls that expand when placed into water. However, if they are swallowed they will expand, pose serious health risks and may even require surgery.

Always supervise your little one if they are playing with water beads, and make sure that they are stored in a safe place away from children and pets.

Choking hazards

Small parts, whether from toys, decorations or even packaging can pose choking risks for children under 3 years old. Always read age recommendations on toy labels and avoid giving small or detachable toys to younger children.

Be sure to check toys regularly to make sure no parts have become loose or broken!