PARENTS are being urged to be wary of buying dangerous toys in the run-up to Christmas by Swindon Trading Standards officers.

In the past, officers have discovered dangerous toys such as Russian dolls with excessive lead in the paint.

But even toys which pass their safety checks could be dangerous in the wrong hands.

Rob Taylour, head trading standards officer, said: "Most toys are safe and it's our job to check they are. What we can't do is make sure that toys are used safely. We rely on people to follow simple guidelines when buying them.

"Every Christmas, children are injured playing with toys unsuitable for them."

Trading standards staff have issued the following guidelines:

n Buy toys suitable for the child's age and remember that toys which are safe for older children may be dangerous for younger ones.

n Keep instructions for future reference.

n Pay special attention to warning notices.

n Take care with second-hand toys, especially if safety or other instructions are missing.

n Remember that some toys need safety equipment to use, for example bikes and skateboards require pads and helmets to be worn.

"All home accidents are preventable," said Mr Taylour.

"A toy which is safe in the hands of a 10-year-old could be dangerous to a toddler.

"Children have huge imaginations and will think of uses that adults giving the toy would never guess.

"Toys should be suitable for the child's age, abilities and situation."

He said parents should look out for choking hazards like small parts or loose hair, sharp edges, lead paint and fire risk.

If in doubt, they should check for the CE safety mark which all new toys should have.

Anyone who comes across a toy in Swindon shop which they think is unsafe should contact council trading standards staff on (01793) 466155.

www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/swindon