WATCH Releases its 2017 Dangerous Toys List for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is fast-approaching. Many parents have already started shopping for gifts. Each year, consumer safety groups like World Against Toys Causing Harm (WATCH) warn parents about toys that may harm their children. WATCH has compiled a list of unsafe toys for the past four decades. This year’s list was recently published online. The list for 2017 includes the following toys:

Fidget Spinners: It comes as no surprise that fidget spinners ended up on WATCH’s 2017 list of unsafe toys. According to WATCH, fidget spinners are sold with small parts that can pose a choking hazard to children.
Hallmark’s Itty Bittys Stacking Toy: WATCH claims that Hallmark’s new stacking toy has fabric hats and bows that can detach and create a choking hazard. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall for this toy in late August.
Pull Along Pony: This product contains a pull cord that is 19 inches long. According to WATCH, the length of the cord creates an entanglement and strangulation hazard for small children.
Wonder Woman Battle-Action Sword: WATCH claims that this product may increase the risk of facial or impact injuries.
Spiderman Spider-Drone: According to WATCH, the Spiderman Spider-Drone’s fast-moving propellers can increase the risk of injuries. The product is sold at Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Toys R’ Us.
Nerf Zombie Strike Deadbolt Crossbow: WATCH argues that his product’s design increases the risk of eye and facial injuries.
Slackers Slackline: This product, which is marketed as “safe for all ages”, is a tightrope that was designed to be tied between two trees. WATCH warns that this product may cause strangulation or fall injuries.
Oval Xylophone: The Oval Xylophone captured WATCH’s attention because children could choke on the drumstick handle. According to WATCH, there is no warning on the product label to inform parents of this risk.
Jetts Heel Wheels: This product is designed to be strapped to the heels of children’s shoes. It received the “WATCH Out” warning because it produces sparks that might cause burns.
Brianna Babydoll: WATCH has warned parents that small children can choke on the clothing sold with this product.

Are Defective Children’s Toys Recalled by Manufacturers?

Unfortunately, this is only a small handful of potentially dangerous toys that were sold this year. The CPSC recalls toys throughout the year. In some cases, parents buy these products before recalls or issued. Retailers may continue to sell defective products after a recall. Products may also only be recalled only after they have caused deaths or injuries.

We encourage you to continue reading our weekly blog updates for future updates on popular holiday products that may contain dangerous design or manufacturing defects. You can follow the Washington DC product liability lawyers at Regan Zambri Long PLLC on Facebook and Twitter for future updates.
Categories: Product Liability, Personal Injury