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Fidget spinners: a dangerous trend?

by | Sep 29, 2017 | Products Liability |

New products are constantly cycling in and out of popularity in today’s fast-paced consumer culture. One of those products is the infamous fidget spinner, a stress-relieving toy that has spun into public consciousness with a trail of positive and negative criticism alike. What are the potential drawbacks to owning such a product in Texas? Recent news coverage reports on how these toys could prove to be highly dangerous, depending on a number of factors. 

A 10-year-old Texas girl made CNN News when she choked on one of these intricate toys earlier this year. The child’s mother reported to have noticed her daughter choking while driving home one afternoon, and quickly discovered that the cause was a small part to a fidget spinner. The girl had swallowed this small part, and as a result was rushed to the hospital, where she later went under surgery to remove the piece. Fortunately, the surgery was a success, but the Texas mother warns other parents of the potential dangers of these toys. Within the report, CNN provides the the following safety factors from The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission that are essential when determining the safety of a toy:

  • Manufacturer’s instructions
  • Shape, size and consistency of a toy
  • The source or maker of the toy

CNN adds that, although fidget spinners are beneficial to those struggling with ADHD symptoms, a large majority of children use them only for the purpose of play.

CNN isn’t the only outlet with a keen eye on these highly popular toys. The New York Post remarks in an article that fidget spinners have recently become recognized as one of the most dangerous toys for children. The Post points out that these toys can easily come apart, making their tiny parts an immediate choking hazard. And although some toy safety organizations scare parents more than equip them with product knowledge, many experts recommend that parents closely inspect any fidget spinner before placing one in a child’s possession.     

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

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