DHEC and Toy Experts Share Safety Tips for Holiday Gifts

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)- Time is running out for people to buy Christmas gifts for their little ones. Tonight, experts offer safety tips to make sure kids have a fun yet safe Christmas.

The Department of Health and Environmental Control issued a toy safety checklist featuring tips like:

-Pay close attention to the age recommendations on toys.

-Discard the plastic wrappings from toys immediately

– Avoiding giving young children any toys with small, removable  parts such as removable eyes, noses, etc

:they are choking hazards.

-Inspect all toys for sharp points or edges made from such materials as metal or glass. These toys should not be given to children under 8 years of age.

-Toys with strings, cords or ribbons of any kind should not be hung in cribs or playpens. Young children can become entangled which can cause injury or death.

If you are unsure about a certain toy, ask a professional for their opinion.