Hong Kong Customs today (January 24) alerted members of the public to an unsafe model of stuffed toy. They are advised not to let children play with this toy to ensure their safety. Test results indicated that the small parts of the toy could pose suffocation risks to children.
Customs officers earlier conducted a test-buy operation on seven models of Lunar New Year toys from retailers in different districts for safety testing. Test results revealed that a model of stuffed toy had detachable small parts which would pose a risk of suffocation if swallowed by children.
Investigation is ongoing.
Customs reminds members of the public to observe the following safety tips when purchasing toys:
- Pay attention to age recommendations shown on labels;
- Pay attention to and follow the instructions associated with the toys;
- Beware of whether the small parts of toys (e.g. the eyes of stuffed toys) are easily detachable. Detached small parts may block a child's throat and lead to suffocation if swallowed;
- Check the structure of the toys. For example, whether they have a fragile structure, hidden sharp points, rough surfaces, sharp edges or gaps that may pinch children's fingers;
- Throw away plastic packages of toys and children's products to avoid children being suffocated; and
- Stop children playing with the toys immediately if any damage is observed.
Customs is committed to the protection of consumer interests and regularly conducts spot checks and safety tests on toys and children's products to ensure that they are reasonably safe for use by consumers.
Under the Toys and Children's Products Safety Ordinance, it is an offence to import, manufacture or supply toys for local consumption unless the toys comply with prescribed safety standards. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year on first conviction, and a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for two years on subsequent conviction.
Members of the public with information relating to suspected unsafe toys or children's products may make a report via Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
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