Toy Industry Association Seeks to Educate Consumers Planning Holiday Purchases

NEW YORK -- Nov. 1, 2006 -- Toy Industry Association (TIA), the trade association for North American manufacturers and distributors of toys, games and entertainment products, announced today that November will be designated National Toy Safety Awareness Month, in preparation for the busiest retail toy season of the year.

"Toy safety is a year-round initiative for TIA and our members," said Carter Keithley, TIA president. "With the holidays approaching we feel it is an important time of year to reinforce the themes of safe play and responsible gift-giving."

TIA's tips for safe buying and playing include:

1. When shopping for toys, keep in mind the child's age, interests and abilities.

2. Read toy or packaging labels for age ranges and safety warnings - and only choose toys that are appropriate for the age of the child.

3. Be especially careful when choosing toys for children under three. Select toys that are free of small pieces (or pieces that separate or can be broken off), are lightweight, have no sharp edges or points and are non-toxic.

4. At home, read instructions for assembly and use. Keep product literature in case of future questions and complete warranty cards.

5. Remove and discard all packaging from a toy before giving it to a child.

6. Consider the home environment in which a child will play with a toy and whether younger children may be there. A toy intended for an older child may be dangerous in the hands of a younger one.

7. Supervise children when they play and set good examples of safe play.

8. Remind caregivers, including grandparents, of play-related safety concerns.

9. Choose a safe storage place for toys.

10. Check toys at least every three months to determine their safety. Make any repairs immediately or throw away damaged toys.

Consumers can get additional information for ensuring safe play, choosing appropriate toys, and encouraging positive play experiences through TIA publications like "Fun Play, Safe Play" which is available for download at http://www.toy-tia.org, and through the Toy Safety Hotline (http://www.toyhotline.org), a free year-round resource on safe play. There parents can find advice on creating safe play environments, recommendations for selecting age-appropriate toys, and a full range of information related to toy safety and safe play.

Toy Safety has long been the top priority for Toy Industry Association and its members and since the 1930s, TIA has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure the safety of children at play. In the 1970s, TIA helped draft the first comprehensive toy safety standard and the commitment to toy safety continues today. Working cooperatively with the U.S. federal, state and international governments, child development experts, physicians, engineers, and consumer representatives, TIA's year-round Toy Safety Assurance Program includes continued development of standards for toys, and educating industry and consumers on how they can help ensure safe and fun play for all.

About TIA

As the trade association for North American producers and importers of toys, games and entertainment products for the youth market, TIA represents nearly 500 manufacturers and importers of toys who account for approximately 85% of all toys distributed in North America. Those toy manufacturers are committed to providing safe, fun and innovative playthings for children. TIA has a long history of leadership in the development of toy safety standards, and U.S. standards serve as models for countries around the globe. TIA is committed to making important safety information widely available to parents and caregivers free of charge in order to ensure safe play. Visit the TIA website at: http://www.toy-tia.org.