The St. Kitts Nevis Bureau of Standards (SKNBS) is alerting consumers to safety concerns surrounding fake and counterfeit squishy toys that may pose serious risks to children. The warning follows concerns raised by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other international authorities regarding toys sold through online marketplaces, social media platforms, discount stores, and other retailers.

Some counterfeit squishy toys may contain hazardous materials, including water beads, gels, liquids, powders, or sand, and may fail to meet safety requirements. Damaged and counterfeit toys can release contents that may cause choking, ingestion, inhalation, chemical exposure, or other injuries and are advised to keep the items away from children.

Parents and guardians are also to be warned about a dangerous social media trend encouraging children to microwave or heat squishy toys. Heated toys can burst, releasing hot, sticky materials that may cause severe burns.

Consumers are advised to purchase toys from reputable sellers, check packaging for safety information and manufacturer details, avoid unusually cheap products, and stop using toys that are leaking, torn, sticky, or have strong chemical odors.

Children should never microwave or intentionally heat squishy toys. Medical attention should be seeked in case of serious burns or injuries.