TIPSLIFEHACKS

Parents in Blackpool are being urged to carefully check the toys their children are playing with after a significant number of counterfeit and potentially dangerous toys, including the popular 'Labubu' character, were seized from local shops. Trading standards officers have issued a warning today (July 31st) to consumers, highlighting the risks associated with purchasing fake or substandard toys.

What are Labubus, and why the concern?

Labubu is a popular character created by the artist Kenny Wong and produced by the brand Blind Box. These figures are highly sought after by collectors and children alike. However, the rise in popularity has unfortunately led to a surge in counterfeit versions being sold, often at significantly lower prices. These fake Labubus pose a serious risk as they may be made with substandard materials and lack the safety certifications required for genuine toys.

The Blackpool Seizure

Trading standards officers conducted a series of inspections across Blackpool’s retail outlets, resulting in the seizure of a substantial quantity of these fake Labubu toys. While the exact number of toys confiscated has not been released, officials have confirmed that the items were deemed to be counterfeit and potentially hazardous to children. The toys are believed to have been imported from overseas and sold without proper safety checks.

Why are Counterfeit Toys Dangerous?

The dangers associated with counterfeit toys are numerous. They often contain:

• Toxic Materials: Fake toys may be made with lead paint, phthalates, or other harmful chemicals that can be ingested by children, leading to health problems.
• Small Parts: Counterfeit toys frequently have poorly constructed small parts that can easily detach and pose a choking hazard.
• Flammable Materials: Some fake toys are made with flammable materials, increasing the risk of fire.
• Lack of Safety Testing: Genuine toys undergo rigorous safety testing to ensure they meet required standards. Counterfeit toys bypass these crucial checks.

What Should Parents Do?

Trading standards are advising parents to take the following precautions:

• Buy from Reputable Retailers: Purchase toys from well-known and trusted retailers.
• Check for Safety Markings: Look for the CE mark (Conformité Européenne) which indicates that the toy meets European safety standards.
• Be Wary of Extremely Low Prices: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeit toys are often sold at significantly reduced prices.
• Inspect Toys Carefully: Before giving a toy to a child, examine it for any signs of damage, loose parts, or unusual smells.
• Report Suspicious Items: If you suspect you have purchased a counterfeit toy, report it to trading standards immediately.

Protecting Your Children

The safety of children is paramount. By being vigilant and following these simple tips, parents can help protect their children from the potential hazards of counterfeit toys. Trading standards officers are committed to tackling the sale of unsafe goods and will continue to work to ensure that consumers are protected.

For further information or to report concerns, please contact Blackpool Council’s trading standards department.