William Eichler 24 December 2018

Council chiefs warn of dangerous ‘must-have’ toys

Local government leaders are warning Christmas shoppers to avoid potentially dangerous and fake ‘must-have’ toys.

The Local Government Association (LGA) is urging people to look out for signs of fake products as criminals exploit a surge in demand for sold-out items.

The LGA particularly warned consumers to avoid fake L.O.L Surprise! Dolls because some contain a chemical which can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive system.

Councils are urging people to be wary of turning to suspect online sellers offering next-day delivery.

The LGA is urging shoppers to look for the authentic CE mark on toys or their packaging which confirms they meet consumer safety standards.

Cllr Simon Blackburn, chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: ‘Bargain hunters need to be aware that Christmas is often the most timely opportunity for rogue traders and criminals to cash in by selling dangerous toys to unsuspecting shoppers.

‘Fake, substandard toys can break and cause injuries or pose choking hazards, toxic materials can cause burns and serious harm, while illegal electrical toys can lead to fires or electrocution.

‘If certain toys are sold out in well-known retailers, rogue sellers may either sell fake versions of them to tempt desperate shoppers, or claim to have them in stock on their website when the truth is they don’t exist.

‘To help avoid buying fake and dangerous toys, shoppers should check toys have an authentic CE mark which show they comply with safety regulations, look out for grammar and spelling errors on packaging, buy from well-known and reputable outlets, and resist cheap offers that look too good to be true.

‘Not only is selling fake toys a crime, it harms and ruins the reputation of genuine traders, costs the economy millions in lost tax revenue and often funds organised crime.’

Anyone with information about suspected fake goods can report it to their local council via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Product Support Analyst

Essex County Council
£33512 - £39425 per annum + Hybrid Working
*Experience the best of both worlds with our flexible hybrid working arrangements. Enjoy the freedom to work from home while still benefiting from in England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Security Architect

Essex County Council
£60049 - £70645 per annum + Hybrid Working
This is a 12 month fixed term contract or secondment opportunity.*Experience the best of both worlds with our flexible hybrid working arrangements. E England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Control Officer

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£37602 - £45564 plus shift and weekend allowance
Are you looking for your next opportunity to work as part of a team in a 24-hour emergency control room covering the Boroughs of Richmond and Wandsworth. To be responsible for receiving and logging calls from the public, outside agencies and partners. Use Wandsworth, London
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Senior User Centered Designer

Essex County Council
£60049 - £70645 per annum + Hybrid Working
Interviews will be held on 29th and 30th October 2025.*Experience the best of both worlds with our flexible hybrid working arrangements. Enjoy the fr England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Network and Communications Lead

Essex County Council
£52621 - £61906 per annum + Hybrid working
Interviews will be held W/C 20th October 2025.*Experience the best of both worlds with our flexible hybrid working arrangements. Enjoy the freedom to England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner