Kifowit Recommends Parents Review Annual Toy Safety Guide before Holiday Shopping

AURORA, Ill. – With the holiday season upon us, state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, is encouraging parents to avoid purchasing dangerous products for their children and to take appropriate precautions when giving toys with small pieces that can be choking hazards.

“While the holidays are a wonderful time spent with family and shopping for loved ones, it is important to keep in mind some gifts are potentially hazardous for children,” Kifowit said. “I advise parents to take a moment to review this year’s toy safety guide before they complete their holiday shopping.”

To help ensure a safe holiday season, Kifowit recommends that parents review the attorney general’s annual toy safety guide, which can be found at www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov. This year’s guide includes information about toys that have been recalled due to safety hazards as well as safety tips about toys and games that pose a choking hazard for young children. With more than 65 child product-related recalls this year, Kifowit is advising parents to be cautious when buying gifts both in-store and from second-hand sellers and websites. Second-hand sellers may be unaware that the toys they are selling were recalled in previous years.

“The last thing anyone wants to deal with during the holidays are unexpected accidents leading to unnecessary stress,” Kifowit said. “It is important to remember toys that have not been recalled may still pose potential risks for children. I encourage families to exercise caution when purchasing toys with small pieces or can be a burn hazard.”

For more information about recalled products, residents can also contact the Recall Hotline at 1-888-414-7678.