Does your holiday shopping list include toys? If so, state consumer protection officials are offering some safety tips.
If used improperly, many toys can be a danger to young children. That's why Consumer Protection's Michelle Reinen says it's important to know the child you're buying a toy for. Reinen says you should pay attention to how that child plays with toys, and also look at warning labels and age recommendations on the packaging.
Reinen says if you're buying for a child that's not your own, talk to the parents first. That way you can avoid a toy that may present a choking hazard or increase the risk of an injury.
Also, Reinen says you should use caution when buying toys online. That's because you don't get a chance to check to toy before making the purchase, and warning labels aren't always displayed on an online listing. Reinen says toys bought online should be carefully looked at before they are wrapped.