Most parents love seeing the eyes of their young ones light up on Christmas morning as they unwrap their gifts, but Prevea and the HSHS Hospital System are encouraging parents to buy smart this year.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates emergency rooms across the country treated 198,000 toy-related injuries in 2020; and so far in 2021, 13 toys have been recalled by the organization for potential risk of lead exposure, choking hazards, and excessive noise levels.
The medical institutions encourage toy buyers to avoid toys that launch objects, include a helmet with any bikes, skates, or skateboards, and to read the labels to become familiar with safety concerns.
Prevea Health audiologist, Emily Fisher, says continued exposure to noise above 70 dBA (adjusted decibels) over time will cause hearing loss.
The CPSC reports certain rattles, squeak toys and musical toys can produce sounds as high as 120 dBA.
Fischer said, “If you have concerns about your child’s hearing health, schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.”
