CPSC Issues Warning about Fidget Spinners
After several dangerous incidents involving fidget spinners, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a fidget spinner safety guidance for consumers and businesses. According to a CNN news report, there have been incidents involving choking and two instances of the battery-operated spinners catching fire and another incident in which a fidget spinner melted. In May, a 10-year-old girl choked on a part of her fidget spinner and had to have the piece surgically removed. These types of choking incidents have been reported in children up to age 14, the CPSC states. So far, no deaths have been reported.
What Are Fidget Spinners?
These are colorful hand-held toys that have a sturdy center point with a disc that hold paddle-like wings, which can orbit between your fingers. Fidget spinners can be spun on one’s finger for a couple minutes at a time. This is said to create a pleasing and calming effect. They are made with plastic and can have bits of metal. These were initially marketed as tools for anxiety, designed for kids with ADHD. However, now they are commonly found in most homes. Retailers have turned them into mainstream toys with exciting patterns and even LEDs. Now, they’re a cool fad among children.
Safety Tips from the CPSC
The consumer safety agency is investigating reported incidents linked to this popular product. In the meantime they are issuing warnings to consumers about the safe use of these products. First and foremost, keep them away from young children. Plastic and metal spinners can break and release small pieces that can be a choking hazard. Older children should not put fidget spinners in their mouths. Fidget spinners should be kept away from children under the age of 3.
CPSC has also issued safety guidance on battery-operated fidget spinners. Consumers should always be present when the product is charging. Do not charge it overnight and always use the charger cable that came with the product. Once it’s fully charged, make sure it is unplugged.
The agency has also issued new guidelines for retailers that sell the product. If a fidget spinner is marketed and intended for children 12 and younger, companies must certify that their product meets toy safety and other standards including limits for phthalates, lead content and lead in paint. Anyone who has had an incident with a fidget spinner is urged to report it at SaferProducts.gov.
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defectively manufactured or poorly designed fidget spinner, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries, damages and losses. Contact an experienced product defect lawyer to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.