Parents, relatives and other consumers buying holiday gifts for children have no shortage of options, but knowing which toys are safe for kids of all ages is an important part of having a safe and fun holiday.

Injuries and even deaths from toy-related incidents pose a substantial risk for families with young children. According to SafeKids USA, a network of organizations working to prevent unintentional childhood injuries, about 20 children ages 14 and under die each year from a toy-related incident and 168,000 children ages 14 and under are treated in emergency care for toy-related injuries.

Toy-related deaths and injuries are most often the result of choking, drowning, strangulation or a motor vehicle incident. Choking is most often caused by deflated or broken latex balloons, small play balls and button batteries that easily fit into a child's mouth and throat.

"Choking is a particular risk for kids ages 3 and younger, because they tend to put things in their mouths," said Lisa Dawson, director of the Georgia Department of Public Health's Office of Injury Prevention.

Playing with a non-motorized scooter or tricycle without a properly fitted helmet also can be dangerous. Toys with strings, cords or ribbons should be kept away from babies and cribs to prevent strangulation.

Metals and toxic chemicals found in many toys can also be a serious safety issue. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which regulates toy safety standards, has recalled numerous toys in the past due to the presence of lead paint. Parents and toy shoppers are advised to routinely check the CPSC website for a list of recalled toys.

To make sure gifts for children are safe, CPSC recommends a three-pronged safety approach. Choose toys that are appropriate to the child's interest, developmental skill level and age. Include safety gear whenever buying ride-on toys, such as non-motorized scooters or tricycles. Be aware of the child's surrounding play environment. For example, young children with ride-on toys should be actively supervised and avoid playing near traffic, stairs and swimming pools.

Always read and follow age and safety information on toy warning labels. Make sure that toys made of fabric are flame resistant or flame retardant. Painted toys should be covered in lead-free paint and art materials should be non-toxic.

Toys should be regularly checked for damage that may have created sharp edges or loose small parts. In addition, store toys safely to avoid creating tripping hazards and store toys intended for older children away from younger children.

"Teach children to put toys away after playing. This reduces the chances of trips and falls for all family members," Dawson said.

-Story by Judith Chuang, DPH Communications