Checks to make when purchasing toys 
 1. Place of purchase
Reputable traders are likely to ensure that the toys they sell are safe. Street traders and car boot sellers are unlikely to be so concerned.

2. Quality of workmanship
Good manufacturers, who care about quality, are more likely to care about safety.

3. Construction
Look out for sharp or rough edges, or points
hinges and mechanisms that may trap fingers
small parts that could choke a child

4. Safety and other markings
Must have the name and address of the manufacturer or importer.
Must have a CE mark (since 1/1/90)
May have another safety mark such as the British Lion Mark or the British Kitemark.

5. Warnings and age suitability
Do not ignore warnings. Toys for older children should not be given to younger children. Be careful that young children do not get hold of toys for their older siblings.

Second hand toys
Be extra careful with second hand toys. They may not have a CE mark to show that they are safe. The toys may no longer have any instructions. Below are some further checks that can be carried out on second hand toys;

• Make sure the seams are secure on soft toys, and that the facial features are not easily removed. Check the body of the toy for sharp instruments.
• If the toy needs to be assembled, anchored or fixed, make sure that all the parts are present and that you have the instructions. Missing parts or incorrect assembly could make the toy dangerous.
• Make sure that exits open easily if the child can enter the toy.
• Check the brakes of toys that can be ridden.
• Toys to be used in water should support the child and not lose buoyancy.
• Make sure a child cannot be burnt from toys with heating elements.
• Electrical toys should not exceed 24V and should be properly insulated.
• Beware, painted toys may contain excessive levels of heavy metals.

After purchase

• Dispose of packaging safely, especially plastic bags.
• Before giving it to the child follow the instructions. Keep instructions, safety information and details of the manufacturer, you may need them later.
• Check the toy is working properly and is safe.
• Do not give broken or damaged toys to children.
• Do not mix old and new batteries in a toy, this can lead to overheating.
• Remove the batteries if the toy is not played with for more than one week.
• Check the batteries regularly.
• Repair or throw away broken toys.