Chinese-made Toy Beads Recalled

Millions of Aqua Dots Taken Off the Shelves

Nov 8, 2007

A chemical in Aqua Dot beads caused children who swallowed them to become comatose. Where to turn if you have this toy at home, and ways to keep toddlers safe

Two children recently slipped into a coma after ingesting Aqua Dot beads. A 20-month old swallowed several dozen beads. He became dizzy, vomited and fell into a coma. After several days in the hospital, he has fully recovered. A second child who vomited, slipped into a coma and spent five days in the hospital is also recovering well.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says a toxic coating on the beads is to blame. The chemical 1,4 butanediol, if swallowed can cause:

unconsciousness
respiratory depression
seizures

Toronto-based Spin Master, which distributes the toy, says the Chinese-made beads are included in a craft kit for children ages four and up. The kit allows kids to create various multi-dimensional designs using small colored beads. When you spray them with water, the beads fuse together. Accessories in the kit include a drying fan, applicator pen, design templates for the beads and a spray bottle. Aqua Dot has been on the market since April 2007, and it made Wal-Mart’s list of top 12 Christmas toys. Prices ranged between $17 and $30. Australian officials issued a nationwide ban on a similar toy after three children were hospitalized.

Safe craft kits that contain non-toxic beads are a source of fun and creativity for older children. But how do you prevent your toddlers from getting ahold of beads and other small objects often found in these kits?

First, designate a special "crafts room" for your older children. Keep all kits with small objects on a high shelf and install a child-safe door knob cover.
Do not allow your toddler in that room when your older children are working on crafts.
Explain to your older children the dangers of allowing toddlers to get ahold of small objects.
Avoid buying toys with small parts until all of your children are over the age of three.
Check the label on every child product you buy and make sure it doesn’t contain lead or any other toxic substance.

If you purchased Aqua Dot, contact Spin Master for free replacement beads or a toy of equal value, at 1-800-622-8339 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern time Monday through Friday.

Sources: United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, Reuters News Service

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The copyright of the article Chinese-made Toy Beads Recalled in Consumer Alerts/Product Recalls is owned by L. Marie Dubuque. Permission to republish Chinese-made Toy Beads Recalled must be granted by the author in writing.