5 Dangerous Toys Under a Montana Christmas Tree This Year

5 Dangerous Toys Under a Montana Christmas Tree This Year

I can still remember the first casualty of the Christmas gift giving season as a young child.  I was gifted a motorized helicopter contraption that was attached to a wire that had controls to make it go forward/backwards and up/down.  The prop would whir at wild rpm's as it took off into a circle.

Once I had unboxed it, my father and uncle decided that they should of course test it before letting a young child play with such a dangerous piece of equipment.  And sure enough, they proved their point.  My uncle stuck his finger into the props to demonstrate how safe it would be to my mother.  A sliced finger, blood everywhere and a couple of band-aids later, we had that answer.

Get our free mobile app

Living Life on the Edge During the Holiday Gift Giving Season

So, what really constitutes a "dangerous" toy?  Well, if it has the chance of sending you to the emergency room on Christmas Day, that should be a red flag, obviously.  But some of those same toys that might maim us are also the most popular on our kids' lists.

For instance, my grandson would love to have a motorbike under the tree this year.  Simply not going to happen.  Way too dangerous.  But that doesn't mean that I won't be looking at that new hoverboard that he also wants.

Steering Clear of Dangerous Toys - The Top 5 For This Year

In a recent article from the New York Times, there are 5 toys this year that you should be aware of.  Not to say you shouldn't buy these but be aware that these gifts may lead to some bumps and scrapes.

Diving in, these are in no particular order of being dangerous, just items that you may want to reconsider if you have concerns.

Not only are these a choking hazard for small children, but when they come in contact with saliva, it can cause a chemical burn reaction to skin.

Water beads are non-toxic, however there have been cases of children swallowing these.  Once expanded, they can cause stomach or intestinal problems.

Honestly, I love this gift.  But make sure you buy the accessories that bring safety peace of mind.  Think knee pads, elbow pads, gloves and a good helmet.

No, I am not advocating the not giving of these.  I do however advocate for safety, regardless of the age of the recipient of one of these.  Some of the discs, small balls or gels can be choking hazards.  Plus, those nerf darts can hurt!

Ah, the good old trampoline.  Despite some safety modifications over the years, this is still a tad dangerous in the backyard.  But oh, so much fun!