Toys: Avoid needless holiday tragedy

CLEVELAND, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- About 15 U.S. children die annually in toy tragedies that can be avoided if those playing Santa consider safety as well as fun, an expert says.

Dr. Michael Macknin, a pediatrician at the Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital and long-time child safety advocate, said U.S. hospitals treat more than 200,000 toy-related injuries annually and about 15 children die.

Macknin recommends those buying toys to remember:

-- Small parts are choking hazards for small children. Any part fitting through an empty toilet paper roll could be swallowed by a child.

-- Fine points and thin edges should be avoided for children up to age 8.

-- Straps, strings or cords longer than 7 inches create a strangling hazard -- especially for infants. Even pacifiers on necklaces pose a threat.

-- To take trampolines off the list. Trampolines are not safe for children of any age. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages trampoline use except for athletic training purposes under the strict supervision of qualified individuals.

-- Re-gift but check to ensure toys are in good repair and not on any recall lists. Sign up for e-mail alerts on toy recalls at www.cpsc.gov or www.recalls.gov.