Christmas toys: Five ways to make sure they're safe

How are parents ensured that their children's new toys are safe?  Here are five ways to stay informed.

3. Download product-recall mobile phone apps

Jeff Chiu/AP/File
In this November file photo, an Associated Press reporter demonstrates an app for shopping on her smartphone in San Francisco. Mobile apps are a great way for technology savvy parents to keep track of product recalls, most of which are free.

For more technologically advanced parents, mobile applications are a quick and convenient way to receive alerts.

By downloading an app to their iPad, iPhone, or Android device, consumers can keep track of all the new toys that their children receive during the holidays. Product recall mobile phone apps enable consumers to create and update a personalized list of products they own and have it automatically cross-checked daily against federal recall databases. When the program recognizes that a product you own has been recalled, it will automatically send a notification to your mobile phone or other mobile device.

Consumers can Google “product recall apps” to find a wide range of product recall mobile apps, most of which are free. You can decide which app is most useful for you. Whether you are out shopping or sitting at home, having product recall information at your fingertips will allow you to stay informed, and most importantly, ensure the safety of your children.

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