PARENTS WARNED AFTER TOY RECALLS

Fair Trading Minister Margaret Keech has warned parents to check their children’s toys and remove any of the popular toys recalled by Fisher-Price.

“Mattel is recalling various character toys sold in Australia which may be a lead poisoning hazard,” Mrs Keech said.

“The paint on the toys may contain increased levels of lead, which can affect children’s health if it is ingested.

“The products affected by the recall include Sesame Street, Dora the Explorer and other children’s toys.

“The recalled figures and toys were sold in Australia between 1 May 2007 and 2 August 2007, either alone or as parts of a set.

“The toys also have a date code between 109-7LF and 187-7LF marked on the product.”

The Australian recall follows a voluntary recall of Fisher-Price toys in the United States announced by Mattel and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

“Parents should be aware that if it is ingested, lead can have negative effects on the health and development by young children,” Mrs Keech said.

“Parents should ensure that their children do not come into contact with any product containing or treated with lead.”

“Consumers should immediately take any recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel Pty Ltd on toll-free 1800 674 753, Monday – Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm (EST).

“The company has asked consumers not to return recalled products to retail stores.

“Consumers will receive refunds to the value of the returned product, which they can apply for by calling the number above or visiting the www.service.mattel.com website.”

For colour photos of examples of the recalled products, visit www.cpsc.com.

For all recalls, consumers can visit www.recalls.gov.au.

Media contact: Brian Larter  (OFT) 3119 0067 / Peter McCarthy 3225 1005 or 0439 761 416