Things to consider when buying toys

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued these toy safety tips:

* Look for toy labels that give age and safety recommendations.

* Select toys to suit a child’s age, abilities, skills and interest level.

* For children under 3, avoid toys with small parts, which could cause choking.

* For children under 6, avoid toys with small magnets, which could cause serious injury or death if swallowed.

* For children under 8, avoid toys with sharp edges and points.

* Helmets and safety gear should fit properly and be worn by children using riding toys such as bicycles, scooters, skateboards or skates.

* Improper use of projectile toys, such as rockets or darts, could result in serious eye injuries. They should be used only by older children.

* Battery chargers and adapters can pose a burn hazard for children.

* Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys.

* Keep toys that are appropriate for older children away from younger children.

* Stay informed by signing up to receive direct e-mail notification of recalls at www.cpsc.gov.