Children love toys that light up, make noise and generally annoying adults; however, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently released a statement about one of the most popular aspects of children’s toys – laser lights. The FDA has concluded the laser lights are dangerous to children’s eyes and can even cause blindness in some cases.
According to the FDA’s statement, the most dangerous laser light toys include guns with laser lights mounted on top for “aiming,” tops that spin while emitting laser beams, lightsabers with lasers, and lasers used in an open room for an “optical effect.” That would really cover about all applications for laser lights in children’s toys.
A health promotion officer with the Center for Devices and Radiological Health at the FDA said that both children and parents believe these toys are safe because of the way advertisers are promoting them. However, the report says that even though a child might not experience any pain, the exposure of the laser light to their eyes over time – or even once – can cause burns or eye damage. The damage can be permanent.
In order to avoid potentially damaging your child’s eyes, the FDA says to look for a statement on the toy’s label that says it complies with 21 CFR Subchapter J. This means it is in compliances with the Code of Federal Regulations. If that isn’t on the label, then the health promotion officer with the FDA says you simply cannot assume the laser toy is safe. In addition, the FDA advises everyone to avoid shining the lasers at anyone or any animal.
If you or a loved one have been injured because of a defective product, contact an experienced Florida personal injury attorney. Your attorney will ensure your rights are protected and can advise you of how to proceed with a civil lawsuit against those responsible for your injuries. You may receive financial compensation for such claims as pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, loss of consort or other damages.
Source:
huffingtonpost.com, “Laser Toys Are Dangerous For Kids, FDA Says” Mandy Velez, Aug. 06, 2013
