(WSIL) -- Whether you're trying to keep your child occupied during this pandemic or shopping for presents, be aware of toy safety.
December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month, but a discovered that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) removed their toy police from ports around the U.S, for over 6 months because of COVID-19, causing a drop in safety inspections.
Jack and Josie's Toy & Candy store buyer Christine Keeney says they haven't had any , but always does her research.
"Once we get a company that we know is safe, conscientious, concentrating on our areas in what we're looking for, then we start looking through their toys," she said.
She says typical toy dangers like strings, small parts, toxic substances
and inaccurate warnings, could put children at risk and says you should always pay attention to the age on the box.
"Not only is it--it's a little bit for development wise, the age suggestion, but even more it's for safety. If you see a toy that is 3+, the main thing is there are smaller parts in it. That is the cut off for the smaller parts," she said.
One shopper says she's always cautious of the toys she buys her grandchildren.
"I always check the age limits on whatever gift I'm giving and basically try to stay within that guideline and then I know it's going to be safe," said Katherine Heim.
Keeney says they have popular toys, like STEM projects, but due to COVID-19, she says many people are buying other items.
"They are wanting a lot of family things they can do together, so my board games, my puzzles those are very big," she said.
If you notice any problems, experts say to immediately report them to the CPSC .
