Major fears over novelty Christmas toys
A number of novelty household items containing button batteries – including a Christmas sock-shaped light – have been recalled over serious safety fears posed to young children.
Seven separate novelty items were recalled by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) because they didn’t comply with mandatory rules around button batteries.
The small, round batteries pose a risk to children of choking, severe internal burn injuries, or even death if they gain access to and ingest the batteries, according to the ACCC.
“Consumers should immediately stop using these novelty products and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund,” a release from the ACCC said.
The items were supplied by BLJ International Pty Ltd and were sold at Smart Dollar Stores throughout NSW between November 15 – December 30, 2022.
The items include:
Key ring light with button battery
• 3 in 1 laser and led light
• Light up Butterfly
• Electronic watch
• LED Tea Light
• LED Plastic Swinging Candles – small and large
• Merry Christmas Sock Shaped Light
Under ACCC standards, suppliers have to adhere to a range of rules dictating how button batteries are used and tested, including insuring they are secure.
If a supplier cannot ensure the batteries can be secured inside the toy or other item throughout “reasonably foreseeable use of misuse”, it could breach the standards.
