New study highlights dangers of a popular toy

Tuesday, December 2, 2014
VIDEO: New study highlights dangers of popular toy
A new study shows that for older kids foot-powered scooters are responsible for most toy-related injuries.

For a child, there's nothing like the feeling of getting a new toy to play with. But toys can also lead to bumps, bruises and even breaks.

A new study shows that for older kids foot-powered scooters are responsible for most toy-related injuries.

Dr. Gary Smith says, "When they were introduced, there was a rapid increase in the number of injuries. In fact, I will say that I've never seen anything like it in my career."

Doctor Smith says to prevent injuries with scooters or anything with wheels, "Wear a helmet, wear a helmet, wear a helmet."

For kids under three, the biggest risk is choking. Smaller toys, like rubber balls, and action figures, are popular. But if it fits inside a tube, something the size a toilet paper roll, it's a choking hazard.

And another thing to think about when buying toys is button batteries.

Doctors have seen a spike in the number of problems caused by kids swallowing button batteries. They can erode through tissue and blood vessels and the effects can be deadly.

You want to make sure if a toy has a button battery that it is secure and cannot be removed.

And as always, before you buy any toy this season, always check the package for age recommendations.