The CPSC recommends that parents warn children not to put toy gun caps in their pockets. The CPSC says friction can ignite ring caps, paper roll caps, and strip caps and cause burns. This warning is for parents and caregivers of children who play with toy cap guns.
The CPSC also reminds parents that caps may pose a noise hazard.
What Is the Hazard?
According to the CPSC, toy caps contain a small amount of pyrotechnic material. It ignites when struck. The result is a loud noise along with sparks.
The CPSC says the caps can also ignite from friction. That is why a cap carried in a pocket can burn a child. The CPSC says some manufacturers label their packages to caution users not to carry caps in pockets.
The CPSC's guide shows three kinds of caps: ring caps, strip caps, and roll caps. Its message on all of them is that caps should not go in pockets because they may ignite and cause burn injuries.
The CPSC also lists a noise hazard. The guide does not give details about hearing damage. A 1984 CPSC news release says people buying toy guns and caps should be wary of those that can make sounds at noise levels that can damage hearing. That release says federal law requires a warning on boxes of caps that make loud noises. It says parents should not give these caps to children too young to understand the warning.
What Should You Do?
- Explain the hazard of ignition to your children. The CPSC urges parents to tell children that toy caps can catch fire.
- Make sure your children do not put caps in their pockets. This applies to ring caps, paper roll caps, and strip caps.
- Read the package. Some manufacturers print a caution not to carry caps in pockets.
- Follow the noise warning. The CPSC guide says: Do not fire closer than 1 foot to the ear. Do not use indoors.
- Do not give these caps to children too young to understand the warning. The CPSC made this point in its 1984 news release.
- To report an unsafe product, use SaferProducts.gov. You can also call the CPSC Consumer Hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 800-638-8270). It is open 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET.
Source:https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/toys/caps-toy-guns
