February 2026
Magnetic Toys
Super strong magnets can cause serious injury
The injuries they cause can be very serious and even life-threatening.
The magnets are attracted to each other inside the body and stick together, cutting off the blood supply and effectively tearing holes in the child’s intestines.
If a child swallows magnets, they will need immediate assessment in hospital and may need emergency surgery to remove them.
If the injuries are severe, the child may need several operations and time in intensive care.
Doctors are worried about growing numbers of cases. In one group of hospitals, the number of children treated after swallowing magnets has increased by five times in the last four years.
Where are they found?
Younger children have swallowed:
magnetic beads from jewellery-making kits
magnetic balls from building kits
magnets from building block toys and magnetic dartboards
fridge magnets
Five tips to keep children safe from dangerous magnets
Try to buy toys or gifts from a reputable retailer or a brand name you know, so you are sure they meet UK safety standards.
Look for warnings on packaging, and don’t give products with strong magnets to young children.
Keep older children’s magnets away from small children and explain to older children why they need to keep them away from little sisters or brothers.
Talk to tweens and teens about the dangers of putting magnets in or near their mouths or swallowing them.
For Further Information, Please Visit: CAPT