Safety group: These are the 10 worst toys of 2016

Michael Timmermann | March 22nd, 2017

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Just in time for the holidays, the toy safety group World Against Toys Causing Harm (W.A.T.C.H.) has revealed its 10 worst toys of 2016.

Safety group names ‘worst’ toys of the year

“Although parents have a right to expect that toys they give to their children are safe, unsafe toys remain an ongoing problem,” the non-profit organization said in a news release. “Due to poor design, manufacturing and marketing practices, there are toys available for purchase today with the potential to lead to serious injury and even death.”

W.A.T.C.H. said its annual list is meant to illustrate some of the hazards in toys being sold to consumers, and it’s not a comprehensive list of potentially dangerous toys on the market.

Here is this year’s top 10 list:

Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddles Family: Choking hazard warning appears to be listed on some packages but not others.

Kids Time Baby Children’s Elephant Pillow: Marketed with an image of an infant snuggling alone with the plush animal. No warnings or age recommendations.

Slimeball Slinger: Has the potential to cause serious eye injuries.

Banzai Bump N’ Bounce Body Bumpers: Children shown on packaging aren’t wearing the protection recommended by the manufacturer.

Nerf Rival Apollo Xv-700 Blaster: Potential for eye injuries.

The Good Dinosaur Galloping Butch: The toy’s rigid, pointed tail may cause puncture injuries.

Peppy Pups: Potential for strangulation due to long cord.

Flying Heroes Superman Launcher: Could cause eye and facial injuries.

Baby Magic Feed and Play Baby: The small spoon has the potential to be mouthed and block a child’s airway.

Warcraft Doomhammer: Manufacturer offers no warnings regarding potential impact injuries associated with use of the heavy, rigid plastic battle hammer.

What parents need to know

W.A.T.C.H. said the bottom line is that parents shouldn’t assume a toy is safe just because of the brand name on the package or because it’s sold at a well-known retailer. Stay away from any toys that may have been recalled, caused injuries or just don’t work properly.

Toy industry responds

The Toy Industry Association said protecting children is its top priority, and the group pointed out that none of the toys on this list have been recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

“The toy community remains steadfast in its year-round commitment to creating safe toys and games that bring joy and learning to children all over the world,” said Toy Industry Association president & CEO Steve Pasierb. ‘All toys sold in the U.S. are highly regulated 365 days a year by the federal government and must meet more than 100 safety requirements.”

For more on the toys from W.A.T.C.H.’s list, visit the organization’s website.