Groups says even toy weapons are dangerous

CEBU, Philippines — A non-profit group promoting children’s access to non-toxic and safe toys has raised the alarm over the sale of cheap replicas of lethal weapons that may cause injuries among children, especially if played without adult supervision.

The EcoWaste Coalition sounded the alarm after they were able to buy toy weapons with sharp points and edges, including imitation balisong (fan knife), hunting knife, and weapons such as kunai (dagger), shuriken (throwing stars), and tanto (short sword).

The coalition said, these weapon toys are often sold to children for P5 to P10 each by ambulant vendors or toy shops near public elementary schools and in some neighborhood sari-sari stores.

It said that while very affordable, the use of such toys could result in injuries requiring first aid treatment or medical attention and should therefore be kept out of children’s reach.

Thony Dizon, chemical safety campaigner of the said coalition, added that ninja weapon toys inspired by “Naruto”, a Japanese manga series, are attractive to young children who are fascinated by action heroes and some of these toys have pointed parts and sharp edges that can harm an unsuspecting child or his playmates.

Aside from the accidental cuts, stabbing, and eye injuries, the coalition is also concerned with the impact of such toys on the development of aggressive and violent behavior among children. (FREEMAN)