Warning over children’s toys

• Over recent months, trading standards have seized significant quantities of non-compliant and counterfeit items from shops including 1,611 “Labubu” dolls and 1,299 squishy toys.
  
  Here are some top tips on what to look out for when you are buying toys:
  
  Clear safety instructions explaining what to do if the toy leaks, breaks or is punctured.

A CE or UKCA mark indicating that the product has undergone the appropriate safety assessment.

The name and address of a UK-based responsible person, such as the manufacturer or importer. This is important as it enables identification of those responsible if a safety concern does arise.

A strong or unusual chemical smell may also indicate that the toy does not meet safety requirements. Trading standards have investigated concerns about noticeable smells from some dumpling toys and testing revealed hazardous chemicals in certain products.

Councillor Mark Spencer, Newport City Council’s cabinet member for communities and sport, said: “We all know about ‘pester power” and it can be tempting to buy cheaper versions of toys which have become the latest ‘must have’ for children rather than the genuine articles.

“However, recent media stories have highlighted how children have been injured by ‘exploding’ squishy toys so it is vitally important that people take care when buying these and similar toys.

“I would also urge retailers to ensure that they only stock items that they can confirm meet all the safety standards.”

Consumers who have concerns about the safety of a toy should stop using it immediately and report it to their local trading standards service via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline 0808 223 1133.