Most Dangerous Toys of 2017

The holidays are approaching, and parents will be on the lookout for this year’s hottest toys. Before deciding what gifts to give, however, they should consider toy safety. Defective toys can have hidden dangers for kids and may have resulted in numerous recalls in the past year. World Against Toys Causing Harm, Inc. (WATCH) recently released their list of the Most Dangerous Toys for 2017 and urge parents to avoid them. The list includes toys with small parts that can be a choking hazard, as well as some that have inadequate safety information. Most toys feature hazards that WATCH has been warning consumers about for years.

The toys on this year’s list are:

• Hallmark “Itty Bittys” Baby Stacking Toy: This toy does not come with an age recommendation, and was recalled in August of 2017 due to smaller detachable parts that could be swallowed.
• Pull Along Pony: This toy from Tolo is intended for children 12 months and older, but has a 19-inch pull cord, well over the standard 12-inch, and can cause strangulation.
• Wonder Woman Battle-Action Sword: Modeled after the sword in the popular 2017 film, the toy’s rigid plastic structure can cause facial or other impact injuries.
• Hand Fidgetz Spinners: Although product warnings state that it is not a toy; these popular handheld devices have smaller parts that can cause choking hazards.
• Spider-Man Spider-Drone Official Movie Edition: Also based on a popular movie, this remote-operated drone has rotating blades that could cause injury.
• Nerf Zombie Strike Deadbolt Crossbow: Despite warnings against aiming the toy at the eyes or face, flying projectiles may cause serious injury.
• Slackers Slackline Classic Series Kit: This tightrope-like contraption presents a fall risk and risk of strangulation.
• Oval Xylophone: Marketed as safe for children 12 months and older, this musical toy has parts that could block children’s airways if swallowed.
• Jetts Heel Wheels: This device, which adds wheels to regular shoes, includes a sparking feature that can result in burn injuries.
• Brianna Babydoll: This doll has numerous small parts that could present a choking hazard.

Dangerous Toy List Released Each Year

WATCH, a non-profit child safety group based in Boston, has released a list of dangerous toys for over 40 years. According to WATCH, there have been 15 toy recalls since December of 2016, accounting for nearly two million units. The group states that these numbers indicate toy safety standards in the U.S. are insufficient to keep children safe. It is important for parents to research potential gifts to see if products are subject to recall and to ensure that toys are age-appropriate.

Philadelphia Product Liability Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Advocate for Defective Toy Victims

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective toy, call the Philadelphia product liability lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP. Our knowledgeable, experienced lawyers have successfully represented clients in all types of defective product cases, and we are dedicated to obtaining the compensation you deserve. With offices conveniently located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us today at 1-800-222-USWA (8792) or contact us online for a consultation.