Ex-paramedic issues important warning over common children’s toy that could lead to urgent surgery
A WOMAN who once worked as a paramedic has issued an urgent warning to fellow parents.
Nikki and her sister Rach started their own business called Tiny Hearts nine years ago in a bid to “educate parents and caregivers to save a life”.
Now, the ex-paramedic and sister Rach often use their social media accounts to spread their top tips and warnings, too.
In one such video, Nikki told viewers that there’s a common toy that poses a very real threat to little ones.
The toy in question is a refillable water balloon that holds its shape with magnets.
Opening it up, she said: “This toy contains something dangerous… Small, strong magnets.”
Using her manicured hand to remove one of the magnets from the silicone, she continued: “The magnets aren’t even securely attached,” followed by a shocked face emoji.
“And they are small enough for a child to swallow. Also very strong.”
She then took out a round piece of ham to demonstrate how this could impact a child if they were to swallow the magnets.
Placing one on top of the thin slice of meat, she nudged a second one below it until it naturally clipped onto the other.
She said: “The magnets could lock together through the walls of the intestines,” before revealing how the magnets tore through the ham.
“And tear through, or cause blockages,” she continued. “Urgent surgery is required to remove the magnets.”
In the caption, TikTok user @tinyheartseducation added: “The hidden danger of magnetic toys.
“These powerful magnets can attract each other within the body, causing damage to the intestinal walls and leading to emergency surgeries.”
People were quick to comment as one person wrote: “I didn’t know this! Thank you for sharing!!”
Another said: “This information is so valuable! Thanks for sharing.”
“Anyone buying toys for their kids needs to check for magnets….” a third wrote.
While a fourth suggested: “if you want reusable water bombs try sponges. idk why they wouldn’t make it a ring shape”.
Meanwhile, a baby safety expert has shared 11 foods that could be a choking hazard for little ones.
And a paramedic has shared everything you need to know about safe feeding & choking hazards.