In 2003, choking related deaths linked to children's toys accounted for 64 percent of the total number of deaths caused by dangerous toys that year.  According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, every year it receives complaints of at least 15 choking deaths of children below the age of three.  Children below three years old are the most likely to choke on small balls, marbles, balloons, screws, small detachable parts of toys, etc.  In 2003, close to 72 percent of all choking deaths related to toys were linked to choking on small balls, but children can also choke on things like uninflated balloons, pieces of burst balloons and magnets in toys. Even the harmless looking stuffed toy your child plays with can conceal dangers in the form of buttons and beads that make up its eyes and nose; these parts can come off, posing the risk of choking.

Avoiding Choking and Aspiration injuries 

Choking and aspiration hazards are the number one toy-related hazard facing American families.  Many of these hazards can be avoided if manufacturers simply post strong warning labels on the packaging of the toy, certifying the age group for which the toy is recommended.  Toys that have detachable parts are not recommended for children below the age of three years, this warning must prominently featured on a toy's packaging.  There is also a risk of toys purchased for older children in the family making their way into the hands of younger children. 

Almost all major toy manufacturers including Mattel Inc. and Fisher Price have been forced to recall thousands of toys after they were found to present choking hazards to young children.  While a child's tendency to put things in his mouth can't be curbed, manufacturers can take steps to make sure that risks are kept to an absolute minimum.  For instance, teethers and baby rattles should be large enough that they cannot fit in a child's throat.  Also, small sized cars and buses must not have wheels that can come off.