HARTFORD, Conn.—The Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) is alerting Connecticut residents and families to an urgent product recall involving Darice Timeless Minis, a line of miniature decorative toys that has been found to contain lead levels that violate the federal lead paint ban. CT DPH is urging parents and caregivers to immediately stop using these products and to take action to protect children in their care.
The recall was issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and applies to Darice Timeless Minis miniature red wagons, watering cans, and chairs. These small decorative items pose a serious risk of lead poisoning, particularly to young children who may handle or mouth the products.
"Lead poisoning is entirely preventable, and no level of lead exposure is safe for children," said Commissioner Manisha Juthani, M.D. "We are asking every parent, caregiver, childcare provider, and healthcare professional in Connecticut to take this recall seriously. If you have these products in your home, stop using them immediately and throw them away. If you have any concern that your child may have been exposed, please contact your healthcare provider and ask about lead testing. Acting quickly makes all the difference."
WHAT RESIDENTS SHOULD DO NOW
If you have Darice Timeless Minis miniature red wagons, watering cans, or chairs in your home or childcare setting:
- Stop using the products immediately. Do not allow children to handle, play with, or be near these items. Throw the products away. Do not donate or pass them on to others.
- Contact your child's healthcare provider to discuss whether lead testing is appropriate, particularly if your child has handled these products repeatedly or over an extended period.
- Report any injuries or illnesses associated with these products to the CPSC at www.saferproducts.gov and visit the CPSC website for the full recall notice and additional guidance at www.cpsc.gov.
LEAD POISONING IN CHILDREN
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious and irreversible harm to a child's brain, nervous system, and development even at low levels of exposure. Young children are especially vulnerable because their bodies absorb lead more easily than adults and because they are more likely to put objects in their mouths.
There are often no obvious symptoms of lead poisoning in its early stages, which is why testing is critical when exposure is suspected. Symptoms of lead poisoning can include developmental delays, learning difficulties, irritability, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
Early detection through blood lead testing is the most effective way to identify and address lead exposure before serious harm occurs. For questions about lead poisoning prevention, testing, and resources in Connecticut, visit the DPH website.
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