KMPH Fox 26 Central San Joaquin Valley News Source in Fresno, California Entertainment, News, Sports and Weather | Trouble could be under the Tree this Holiday Season

Trouble could be under the Tree this Holiday Season

By: Ashley Ritchie

As parents of ten–year–old Megan, and two–year–old Zachary, Dustin and Carrie Hail have spent their share of time in the toy aisle.

"I choose toys based on their interest and toys I think are going to be safe, that are appropriate for their age," Carrie Hail said.

And for Zachary, finding that age appropriate toy is especially important.

"It concerns me because he puts everything in his mouth," Carrie said.

"You have to look at the common sense approach and see what your child does," Dustin Hail said.

The California Public Interest Research Group, or CALPIRG, says parents like the Hails have every reason to be concerned.

Tuesday, they released their "Trouble in Toyland" report highlighting the dangers that lurk on store shelves, especially this holiday season.

"Not every single toy is safe unfortunately," Erin Steva, CALPIRG advocate, said.

The report points to three major hazards found in toys for sale right now: the presence of lead in toys, choking hazards and danger posed by noise hazards.

Because not every toy is tested before it hits store shelves, CALPIRG advocates advise parents to always examine a toy carefully before buying it and ask themselves it if could potentially turn dangerous.

For Dustin and Carrie Hail, the danger lurking in the toy aisle is a reality they're already aware of.

"You never know. You take the manufacturer's recommendation and their trust and honesty that they're going to give products that are secure for kids. And unfortunately, society sometimes, people cut corners to make a profit. You just have to be cautious of what you're buying," Dustin Hail said.

Advocates say because the only way to find out if a toy has lead in it is through lab testing, you can turn to safer alternatives like wooden toys.

They say wood is a better option when it comes to lead in the paint and lead in the actual product.

To find out more about whether or not a toy is safe, visit www.toysafety.mobi