Batteries

Power up your safety knowledge

The batteries required to run many of today’s toys contain harmful substances like acids and heavy metals. They should be used, stored and discarded correctly — otherwise they can overheat, burst or leak, which could cause serious injuries to you or your child. Here are some guidelines to help you keep playtime safe:

• Read and follow all instructions on battery packaging, especially for batteries that will be used in children’s toys.
• Don’t allow children to install batteries themselves. Improper installation can cause batteries to leak or overheat.
• Make sure your young child can’t open a toy's battery compartment.
• Do not allow your child to take a battery-operated toy to bed. Burns and other serious injuries can result if the batteries leak or overheat during the night.
• Call a doctor or poison control centre immediately if your child swallows a battery. Batteries can be poisonous.
• Remove batteries from toys that will not be used for a long period of time.
• Keep all loose batteries out of children’s reach and sight.
• Recharge batteries in a charger only if they are clearly labelled as rechargeable; use the correct battery charger for the battery type.
• Store batteries in their original packaging and in a cool, dark place away from household chemicals and food.
• Never discard batteries in a fire. This could cause them to burst or explode.