Warning for parents as hundreds of unsafe toys removed from sale
Council urges vigilance as Trading Standards confiscates 470 non-compliant toys in July
Trading Standards officers have seized 470 unsafe toys in North Northamptonshire in July, prompting the council to urge shoppers and businesses to remain vigilant.
The products, including fake versions of popular squeeze toys, breached safety regulations designed to protect children.
The seized toys fall short of the legal requirements set out in the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011, which impose obligations on manufacturers, importers, and distributors to ensure market toys meet essential safety standards.
Potential dangers have been noted regarding some popular squishy dumpling toys, which emit a strong chemical odour and have drawn concern due to the presence of benzene—a hazardous chemical posing a risk to children's health.
Among the products removed from sale were toys that gave off a strong chemical smell and were found to contain potentially harmful substances.
Council officials advise heightened caution in sourcing toys, as many unsafe items were reportedly bought from informal sellers, including those operating from vehicles and car boot sales.
Cllr Kirk Harrison, Executive Member for Regulatory Services, said:
“As we approach the school summer holidays, I would ask that residents remain vigilant and make sure that any toys purchased display the necessary marks and information.
''By remaining aware and purchasing from trusted sources, consumers can help ensure that toys are safe and compliant, protecting children from harm.”
Before purchasing a toy, residents should check that it displays:
- A UKCA or CE marking
- The manufacturer's name and address
- The importer's name and address, where the manufacturer is based outside the UK
- A batch number, serial number or product reference number.
Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of the Council, praised the diligence of the Trading Standards team:
“Toy safety is so important when it comes to our younger residents. Our Trading Standards team continue to excel in the work they are doing daily, as with all teams across the council, to protect residents of all ages in North Northamptonshire.”
Before purchasing toys, residents are advised by the council to check for compliance markings and ensure clear manufacturer and importer information.
For further advice and information visit the council's website.