The holidays are right around the corner and many of us are busy buying last minute gifts for those we love. While the goal is generally to put a smile on their face and to provide hours of enjoyment in the future, it is important to be aware of potential risks your gifts could result in. Dangerous and defective products are a leading cause of personal injuries. The following tips can prevent this from happening and help to protect those you love.
Dangerous and Defective Holiday Gifts For Children
Buying presents for children is always fun and they typically have a long gift list full of suggestions to go by. Unfortunately, some of the items they request may not be safe. Each year, the non-profit group WATCH (World Against Toys Causing Harm), publishes a list of the most popular and potentially dangerous toys of the holiday season. Sadly, seemingly innocent toys your child asks for could pose serious safety risks. Among the most common hazards include:
- Small parts that create a choking risk;
- Sharp edges and items easily broken, leaving behind jagged plastic pieces;
- Projectile parts, which could end up inadvertently being used as a weapon;
- Flawed battery or wiring systems, which could cause burns or electric shocks;
- Harsh chemicals used in creating toy effects.
To protect the children on your holiday gift list, always buy toys from reputable vendors and check the box or manufacturer instructions to ensure they are age appropriate before making a purchase. Be aware that any type of riding toy, such as motorized cars or scooters, also increases the risk for personal injuries. Make sure children are properly supervised when using and buy any protective gear needed to go along with your gift, such as pads or a helmet.
Use Caution With Adults on Your Gift List
Children are not the only ones who can suffer serious personal injuries due to dangerous and defective items. Adults can be at risk too. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) closely monitors products sold in the United States, records safety violations or any product defects that get reported, and maintains a list of all products that are recalled by manufacturers. An assortment of products ranging from clothes to candles to camping gear can be found on the list. Signing up for updates through the CPSA website can help to ensure you stay informed.
In addition, take the same precautions when buying for adults as you would when purchasing gifts for children. For example:
- With sports or recreational equipment, make sure your gift matches the recipient’s skill level;
- Avoid buying anything dramatically discounted, which increases the risk that the product will be defective;
- Avoid buying items from overseas sellers, where safety requirements are not as strict.
Contact Our Portland Personal Injury Attorneys
When personal injuries happen due to defective products, the Johnston Law Firm P.C. helps you hold negligent manufacturers and distributors accountable. Call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland personal injury attorneys online to request a consultation today.