Heather supports the British Toy and Hobby Association’s (BTHA) call for consumers to shop with care this festive period.
The ease of online shopping also comes with potential dangers. While toys sold on the high street have passed vigorous safety tests, the same cannot necessarily be said for those sold on online marketplaces.
The BTHA have been reporting unacceptable levels of unsafe toys sold via third party sellers on online marketplaces since September 2018, as part of our commitment to identify and stop the sale of unsafe toys.
Heather says:
“This is just good advice. We have a well-regulated toy industry in this Country and so it just worth checking. A purchase is not a bargain if a child gets injured.”
The BTHA urges consumers to act with caution when purchasing toys from online marketplaces. Here are some BTHA top tips to ensure you stay safe when shopping online during this festive period:
- Be careful about buying from third-party sellers on online marketplaces - don’t assume that any safety tests have been carried out.
- Do some research before you buy and include the company name when you search the online marketplace. Look for sellers you recognise and trust.
- Beware of the toy with the cheapest price – sometimes it can be too good to be true!
- Do your due diligence on the seller. Do they have a clear address to return an item? Do they have any reviews? Beware of fake comments!
- When a child opens a toy, stay with them and check for faults, detachable small parts, access to stuffing and loose or accessible batteries or magnets.
- If you think the toy, you have bought is unsafe, be sure to write a review to warn other purchasers and talk to your local Trading Standards.
