Testing for tainted toys
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Updated: 7:06 PM Aug 15, 2007
Testing for tainted toys
Parents are scanning their toy boxes for the 18.2 million toys Mattel, Inc. recalled. How can you make sure your kids are safe?
Posted: 6:29 PM Aug 15, 2007
Reporter: Alana Greenfogel
Email Address: Alana.Greenfogel@wndu.com
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Toys. Lots of them. That is what fills Jenn Samuel's basement, understandably, because she has four kids.

Jenn says knowing some of the toys may be dangerous is nothing to play around about.

"It seems like today you can't trust anything," Jenn explains. "You buy toys that you think your kids are going to love and then you find out there could possibly be something wrong with them."

One way to test them is to take the toys to the St. Joseph County Health Department. There is even a lead department.

"Lead causes brain damage. It could lead to lower IQ, decrease intelligence, ADHD problems, other health problems, dizziness, fatigue," explains Rebekah Waechter, the lead program coordinator.

Waechter shows us tools and equipment they have to test for lead on products, some more effective than others.

But Waechter says the most effective way to test your child is through a blood test. That is available through the lead program. The hotline is (574) 235-9582.

Meanwhile, stores are taking the recalled items off the shelves, and those at the lead program encourage you to do the same in your own homes.

For a complete list of recalled toys you can visit a special website Mattel set up listed below or call the Mattel hotline toll free at (888)597-6597 for a free replacement toy.


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