Dec Web

TOYS, GAMES AND THE EYES:
TIPS TO KEEP KIDS SAFE
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
by Dr. William Benevento, M.D. Eye Surgeons Associates
As we’re immersed in the season
of toy buying, here are a few safety
tips to keep in mind. These guidelines
are not absolute; the best toy for a
child also takes into account their
individual interests, abilities and level of
responsibility.
According to the U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission, there were
an estimated 224,200 toy-related injuries treated in
hospital emergency departments in 2019. Forty-six
percent of the estimated injuries were to the head and
face area, the most commonly affected area of the
body.
Some propelling toys, such as airsoft guns,
arrows, paintball guns and darts, can be particularly
hazardous, with the potential to cause serious eye
injuries including scratching the surface of the eye,
bleeding inside the eye, traumatic cataract, increased
eye pressure and even permanent vision loss. It’s best
to avoid purchasing projectile-firing toys due to safety
concerns. However, if your children are playing with
these types of toys, everyone, even adults, should
follow/wear the recommended protection, including
eye protection, to block flying objects from damaging
their eyes.
An estimated 17 percent of children’s eye injuries
are caused by missile-type toys or toys with hard
6 December 2021 I QC Family Focus
edges or detachable parts. Look for toys marked with
“ASTM”, which means the product meets the national
safety standards set by the American Society for
Testing and Materials. Do not allow your children to
play with non-powder rifles, pellet or BB guns. They
are extremely dangerous and have been reclassified
as firearms and removed from toy departments.
Youngsters are particularly vulnerable during
the excitement of the holidays. The Illinois Society
for the Prevention of Blindness offers the following
recommendations:
1. Be aware of how and where your children or
grandchildren play with their toys. There is no
substitute for adult supervision.
2. Keep inappropriate toys away from children who
are too young or too inexperienced to use them
properly.
3. Make sure toys will not shatter with rough handling
or under violent impact.
4. Read manufacturers’ instructions for using toys
properly and age appropriateness.
5. Ensure that laser-product labels include a statement
that the device complies with 21 CFR (the Code of
Federal Regulations) Subchapter J.
Babies like toys that stimulate their senses,
especially those that are brightly colored and
lightweight for handling. They should not have sharp
edges, points, or pieces that can be swallowed.