Infant Teethers Sold At Target Recalled For Choking Hazard

Toy company Battat is recalling over 61,000 infant teethers sold in the U.S. and Canada after they were found posing a choking hazard to young children.

The recall affects the B. toys Firefly Frank Teether Glowy Chews that were sold exclusively at Target in the U.S., the recall notice at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said.

The plastic infant teethers are shaped like a firefly and light up when shaken. The problem is that the plastic wings on the teether can detach, thereby posing a choking hazard.

As of the recall notice, the company has received 14 reports of the teether's wings or parts breaking off, one of which resulted in a child choking on a broken piece of the wing, CPSC noted.

The recall is also being done in cooperation with the government of Canada since about 210 of the teether were sold there.

"As of March 25, 2021, the company has received no reports of incidents or injuries in Canada," Health Canada noted, adding that the 14 reports were from the U.S.

Those who may have the product in their homes are advised to take it away from young children and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund, "with or without a receipt," Battat said. That would be Target in the U.S. and Hudson's Bay in Canada.

Consumers may also choose to return the item by mail. Those who wish to do so may fill up the company's customer service form.

Preventing Choking Hazards In Children

Often, young children and babies explore their surroundings by putting things in their mouths. As such, small objects, including food and toys, can easily get caught in their windpipes, The Nemours Foundation said.

When it comes to objects, items such as small magnets, erasers, bottle caps and marbles are considered choking hazards that should be kept away from within children's reach.

To prevent choking hazards, Stanford Children's Health recommends not letting young children play with small toys that they may choke on. Parents are also advised to check their toys regularly to make sure they have no parts breaking off.

Other tips to prevent choking include checking under furniture or between cushions for possible choking hazards such as batteries or pen caps and not letting young children play on bean bag chairs. These items have small pellets that children may choke on if ripped open.

The Nemours Foundation also recommends following the age recommendations when buying toys and encouraging the older kids in the household to not leave small items out in the open. Apart from "child-proofing" the home, those with young children in their household are advised to learn CPR just in case of an emergency.