Expert panel discusses toy recalls, dangerous counterfeits, and tips for parents this holiday season.

Yesterday CALPIRG Education Fund Advocate Sander Kushen, Dr. Helen Arbogast (Children’s Hospital Los Angeles), and Colleen Corrigan (Children Now) discussed the dangers of recalled and counterfeit toys and our 37th annual Trouble in Toyland report.

One shocking finding: Last month, CALPIRG Education Fund was able to purchase more than 30 recalled toys from several U.S.-based online sellers. The report warns parents and toy-givers to check whether a toy has been recalled by going to saferproducts.gov.

In addition to calling on retailers to stop selling dangerous toys, the speakers emphasized the responsibility of parents to check their kids’ toys for safety hazards. Tips for parents included:

• Be aware of choking hazards, especially for young kids. If a toy can fit through a toilet paper roll, it’s small enough to choke on.
• Look for labeling on toys that says it’s nontoxic.
• Be wary of toys from unfamiliar or international sellers. They may be more likely to sell counterfeit toys or toys that don’t meet U.S. safety standards.

Sander Kushen concluded his remarks saying, “All of us: toy manufacturers, retailers, regulators, consumer advocates, families, and shoppers need to do more to protect our children.”

You can view the full Trouble in Toyland report here.