November 18, 2008 'WATCH' out for 10 worst toys for kids Play video

(NECN: Ally Donnelly, Boston, Mass.) - Last year alone, hundreds of U.S. children were hurt and 18 died from toy-related injuries. In time for the holiday shopping rush, a Boston-based consumer group has come out with its annual "10 Worst Toys List." This year's list is less focused on lead and toxic chemicals, and more focused on choking hazards and inadequate warning labels.

James Swartz, an attorney with World Against Toys Causing Harm (WATCH), goes down the line of the consumer group's annual worst toys list. This is the 36th year the Boston-based WATCH has highlighted what they consider unsafe toys, just in time for the holiday season.

This year's toys include:

- The Sportsman Shotgun by Parris Manufacturing Company. WATCH says the rubber bullets fired from the shotgun's magazine pose serious eye injury hazards.

- The Pucci Puppy House by Battat Inc. WATCH says the small parts pose choking hazards and the toy is inappropriately marketed to kids as young as two

- Digger the Dog pull toy by Playskool WATCH says the toy's two-foot long cord could easily strangle a small child

- Pooh Bear Meadow Mystery Book by Disney WATCH says the small parts can choke kids

- Ninja Battle Gear by Playmates Toys WATCH notes the potential of blunt impact injuries

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In a phone interview, a spokesperson for the NY-based Toy Industry Association,

says WATCH does not actually test any of the toys for safety and these types of lists often frighten parents unnecessarily.

"The toy industry and all members adhere to strict safety guidelines and these toys are being sold on toy shelves, so that means they are indeed safe," said Adrienne Citrin.

Millions of toys were recalled in 2007. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, there were 230 toy-related injuries and 18 deaths. Citrin says parents need to adhere to warning labels and age recommendations.

"Who is responsible? It's the manufacturer, distributor and retailer of the toys," said Joan Siff of WATCH.

This summer, Congress signed into law the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. Among other things, it requires that all toys and baby products be tested before sold, that toxic chemicals, like lead and phythalates be banned in toys, and that civil penalties be increased against violators. It goes into effect early next year.