PBMA Partners with Salvation Army to Encourage Safe Angel Tree Purchases

This is the third year of our valued partnership with the Salvation Army to help provide Safe Toys information with their Angel Tree displays.  Each person who chooses an Angel from an Angel Tree in the Richmond or Roanoke, Virginia areas will receive a card that explains how and why they should choose age-appropriate and safe toys for their selected Angel.

The following recommendations are provided on the cards that are distributed with each Angel and should also be followed when choosing gifts for your own family and friends:

• Inspect toys for safe construction. Products given to young children should be made of durable plastic or wood with no sharp edges or points. The toys should be able to withstand impact. Avoid purchasing toys with small parts for young children, as they tend to put items in their mouths, increasing their risk of choking.
• Check your children’s toys regularly for broken parts. Throw broken toys out immediately if they cannot be safely repaired. Older kids often alter their toys and misuse them, making them unsafe. It is best to be vigilant, even with older kids, so that serious eye injuries can be prevented.
• Read the instructions and the suggested age level on the packaging. Assess whether the item is appropriate for the child’s ability and age. Age labeling is provided not just for developmental reasons, but for safety reasons as well.
• Avoid toys that shoot projectiles such as toy guns – they contribute to a large number of serious eye injuries and can rob children of their sight.
• Look for the symbol ASTM F963. This indicates the product meets the national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
• Make recommendations to family members and friends about gifts that you feel are appropriate for your child.
• Check recent toy recall lists before shopping.

This program has been sponsored for its third year in the Richmond area by Virginia Eye Institute, and has expanded this year to serve the Roanoke area through sponsorship from Vistar Eye Center.