Security Watchdog Posts Nightmare Photos Of Destroyed Toys As Warning To Parents

MORE than 51,000 UNSAFE toys have been destroyed by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in the past seven years, and the safety watchdog has released some disturbing images as a warning to parents buying gifts this Christmas.

The unfortunate toys, ranging from stuffed animals, teddy bears, toy guns, inflatable toys with small parts, and battery-operated toy dogs, were found in multiple shipments from different importers.

The 51,392 toys were deemed unsafe for use by Irish consumers after inspections found they did not comply with EU and Irish safety rules and regulations.

The risks ranged from possible choking hazards to chemical problems, in violation of various toy safety regulations.

The destruction process is the last step in a long legal process, but it will likely be the main cause of future nightmares.

Cover your children’s eyes now.

Source: Conor Whyte / JPAC

Source: Conor Whyte / JPAC

Source: Conor Whyte / JPAC

Source: Conor Whyte / JPAC

With the high volume of poor quality, unsafe or non-conforming products being imported into Ireland, the CPCC has created a checklist of what to watch out for to ensure parents are ‘safety conscious’ this Christmas.

• Check the CE mark on toys before you buy them. The CE mark is a declaration by the manufacturer that the product complies with EU regulations and safety standards.
• Buy from a reputable retailer to avoid unsafe, non-compliant toys or toys with a fake CE mark. If you are shopping online, do a little research, check reviews and social media pages, and the location of the business.
• Check for removable parts smaller than 2 coins, as anything smaller could pose a potential suffocation hazard to children.
• Check the age instructions for all children’s toys, particularly ages 0-3, before purchasing.
• Check for sharp edges, long cords, or cables, and avoid dangerous or kinkable parts or small holes that could trap children’s fingers.