Unsafe Lead Levels in Toy Truck Set
The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is calling for the Federal Government to investigate the Truck & Car Set: 2 Vehicles with Trailer toy and test for a national recall. The toy is distributed by Old East Main Co. and was sold at Dollar General stores throughout New York State. Research and testing found the red and gray surface coating of this toy contains inconsistent lead levels – in certain samples up to 11 times the allowable paint and surface coating lead level established by the federal Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. The Division is also warning holiday shopping consumers about the health hazards the lead paint found on the Truck and Car Set toy presents to children.
“It is deeply concerning and disappointing to learn that some of the products intended for our children fail to meet the health and safety standards they deserve,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “I urge the Federal Government to take this issue seriously and to investigate and test for recall this truck and car toy set before parents and guardians unknowingly place these gifts under the tree for their child this holiday season.”
At the DCP’s request, Dollar General has removed the toy from its stores in New York pending additional testing. The DCP also contacted the distributor requesting it cease the distribution and sale of the toy in NYS and nationwide.
What To Do If You Own This Toy Set:
If anyone has the Truck & Car Set: 2 Vehicles with Trailer at home, they can dispose of it by simply throwing it in the garbage, or they can choose to set it aside in a safe area and await any future recall instructions, which may or may not include a refund component. Consumers with unopened toys may contact Dollar General and seek a refund or store credit in accordance with store policies.
What is Lead, and Why Is It Harmful?
Lead is a chemical substance often used in production of painted toys, furniture and toy jewelry; cosmetics; food or liquid containers; and plumbing materials. According to the New York State Department of Health, lead is a metal that can harm children when it gets into their bodies. Lead can harm a young child’s growth, behavior, and ability to learn. It can also cause anemia, kidney damage, and hearing loss. More information on Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention is available at https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/.
Safety Tips When Shopping:
Hazards in children’s products are often latent and unfortunately not known until someone is hurt. Accordingly, the DCP urges consumers to follow simple safety tips when shopping to best ensure the toys purchased are safe for children:
•Always purchase age-appropriate toys.
•Read labels carefully and take note of all warnings.
•Keep toys in good condition and repair or dispose of broken toys.
•Make sure any fabric toys are labeled as flame-resistant or flame-retardant.
•Monitor children’s product recalls at https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls or sign up for email alerts at https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/Subscribe to be notified of any recalls right away.
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