Toys are supposed to be a source of fun, not danger. Some toys present a hazard to Louisiana children. When this happens, a recall must be instituted to ensure the health and safety of all potential users of the toys. This week a popular fishing game has been recalled, due to safety concerns for the youngest citizens among us.
The focus of the recall is the Sardines Fishing Game and Starfish Fishing Game. These games have been found to present a serious choking hazard to children. The games are played by picking up a toy fish using a play fishing rod that contains a magnetic worm. The problem is that the plastic worm on the fishing pole can separate. This separation reveals small parts that can pose a serious choking hazard to children. The magnet can also separate from its casing. Swallowed magnets can do serious harm to internal organs.
The toy is made in China, but is distributed by Juratoys U.S. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The company has received over 400 reports of plastic worms separating and leaving small parts. Four children have reportedly ingested these small parts, although no injuries have been reported at this time. Consumers that have purchased these games should stop use, and contact the company for an immediate refund.
Dangerous products, such as this one, can present a serious hazard to the public. The state of Louisiana allows anyone who has been injured by a defective product to bring a negligence lawsuit against the manufacturer or the distributor.
Source: Consumer Product Safety Commission, “Juratoys Recalls Fishing Games Due to Choking Hazard,” Sept. 10, 2015
