As the holiday season is upon us, the Knox County Health Department is urging parents and caregivers to prioritize toy safety.

In 2022, nearly 210,000 toy-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency rooms, with 11 fatalities involving children under 12.

Common risks include choking on small parts, falls from riding toys, eye injuries from projectile toys, and drowning in shallow water.

In a news release, Knox County Community Health Nurse Susan Yochum says to keep children safe, parents should choose age-appropriate toys, inspect them for loose or broken parts, and supervise play, particularly around water or roads. Safety gear, such as helmets and knee pads, is essential for riding toys, and caregivers should always read safety labels before purchasing.

For more information contact the health department.