Play it Safe: Shop Smart this Holiday Season

December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month! Below are some tips and recommendations to ensure your family stays safe and happy this holiday season!

• Look for the "ASTM" symbol on toys: All toys for children 12 and under bearing this symbol must be third-party tested and certified as compliant with the federal toy safety standards.

• Avoid building sets with small magnets for children under six.

• Avoid toys with small parts for children younger than three.

• Riding toys, skateboards, and in-line skates go fast and can be dangerous. Helmets and safety goggles should be sized to fit.

• Projectile toys such as air rockets and darts are only for older children.

• Changing and charging batteries should be supervised by adults.

• Look for labels with age and safety advice.

• Throw away any broken toys.

Sign up for free toy safety alerts on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's website.

Source: Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington