OFT issues Christmas toy safety advice

Shoppers are being reminded to check gifts are safe for children.

The Office of Fair trading (OFT) is also asking people to be vigilant when buying presents and pay attention to any warnings or symbols.

It follows the news of dangerous advent calendars being sold in Scotland.

The fidget spinner calendars were found to contain unsafe levels of chemicals in the plastics which may be harmful to children. 

These familiar symbols indicate products meet applicable EU or UK legislation or standards, whether the manufacturer is a member of the British Toy and Hobby Association (Lion Mark) and the age suitability of toys due to hazards such as small parts.

Consumers can be reassured  items with these symbols follow safety guidelines, and that the materials and manufacturing processes used are of the highest standard.