A widely popular children's toy has been urgently recalled by safety regulators after being flagged as presenting a high risk of injuries and asphyxiation to young users. The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a formal recall notice for the Soft Bulalaet Gun, manufactured by Smart Toys Limited, citing severe safety concerns related to its design and components.
Immediate Safety Concerns Identified
The primary hazard associated with this toy stems from its inclusion of water beads, which are used as ammunition in the product. According to the OPSS hazard warning, these beads, if swallowed by a child in their hydrated form, can block the airway, leading to potential asphyxiation. Additionally, ingestion may cause serious internal injuries, posing a dual threat to child safety.
The regulatory body has confirmed that the Soft Bulalaet Gun does not comply with the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011, which set mandatory standards for toy safety across the UK. This non-compliance has triggered the immediate recall action to prevent any further risk to children.
Product Details and Identification
Parents and caregivers are urged to check for the following identifiers to determine if they possess the recalled item:
- Product Reference: 555D-2
- Batch Code: AJ2023-02
- Description: A toy gun designed to shoot water beads from a grenade-shaped detachable plastic tank, packaged in a cardboard box.
The packaging notably features the tagline "let's experience the fun of war together," which has drawn attention amid the safety concerns. The product was marketed as an interactive play item but has since been deemed unsafe for its intended audience.
Corrective Actions and Consumer Advice
In response to the identified risks, the OPSS has mandated a corrective action requiring Smart Toys Limited to recall the product from end users. The safety authority advises all consumers who have purchased the Soft Bulalaet Gun to take immediate steps to mitigate the danger.
- Cease Use Immediately: Stop using the toy at once to prevent any potential accidents or injuries.
- Return for Redress: Contact the point of purchase to arrange a return and seek appropriate compensation or replacement.
- Seek Further Information: For additional details or assistance, consumers can reach Smart Toys Limited directly at 020 8571 1041.
This recall underscores the critical importance of vigilance in product safety, particularly for items designed for children. Regulatory bodies like the OPSS continuously monitor the market to enforce standards and protect public health, but consumer awareness and prompt action are equally vital in preventing harm.
Parents are encouraged to regularly check official recall notices and report any safety concerns with toys or other products to help maintain a safe environment for all children.
