Qld: Dangerous toys pulled from shelves

AAP General News (Australia)
12-14-2008
Qld: Dangerous toys pulled from shelves

BRISBANE, Dec 14 AAP - Dozens of Christmas toys branded as unsafe have been withdrawn
from sale in Queensland.

The annual statewide pre-Christmas blitz by the Office of Fair Trading found hazards
in 34 different products, including unsafe lead levels in one toy.

Among the scratchings from Santa's list are infant rattles, toy cars and bath toys.

Queensland Attorney-General Kerry Shine said some tiny objects that were small enough
to be swallowed when dry but expanded up to six times their size when wet.

"You can only imagine the potentially horrific consequences of that should a toddler
swallow one," Mr Shine said.

"It's imperative for the safety of all kids that products like these are taken off
the market and that's why product safety officers have inspected more than 5760 products
across the state, with a particular focus on toys for children aged three years and under,
projectile toys and banned toys."

Inspectors conducted more than 280 spot checks and inspected more than 200 stores throughout
Queensland.

All toys that failed the mandatory safety standards were removed from sale immediately
and action will be taken against the suppliers.

Mr Shine urged consumers to carefully examine toys for possible dangers before giving
them to their children, particularly lower-priced toys that are often sold through discount
stores and in markets.

Anyone not sure about their purchases can visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au. for more
information or the national product recall website www.recalls.gov.au.

AAP ahe/it

KEYWORD: XMAS TOYS (WITH FACTBOX)

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