Health Canada warns of magnet sets that pose serious health risks

Health Canada is warning Canadians of the serious danger posed by three magnet sets primarily sold online (photos below): NicoSee Wonder Hematite Rattlesnake Eggs by Maple Mall SpaceCare Hematite Magnetic Stone set by Safari Store Ruptop Magnetic Pen High-quality Innovative Gel Pen Finger Play Toy by Shenzhen MengLang Keji Youxian Gongsi (Inadvertently Spirits Décor) These sets contain small, powerful magnets that can be easily swallowed by children of all ages, posing serious and potentially life-threatening risks. When more than one powerful magnet is swallowed in a short period of time, the magnets can attract one another while moving through the intestines. This can cause the intestines to twist, creating blockages or tearing of the intestinal walls. Swallowing incidents have often resulted in considerable damage to gastrointestinal tissues and required emergency surgical treatment. For survivors, there can be long-term health consequences. To date, no incidents or injuries related to these products have been reported to Health Canada.

Physical hazard

Immediately stop using these magnet sets, check that all pieces are accounted for and contact your municipality for instructions on how to dispose of the products. Keep small magnet sets out of the reach of children. Do not allow children to play with small toys or other small items that contain powerful magnets. Check your children’s toys for wear and tear. Throw away any toys with magnets that have come loose. Teach children of all ages that magnets and items containing magnets should never be placed in their mouth, nose or ears. Seek immediate medical attention for any child who has swallowed (or is suspected of having swallowed) one or more magnets. Read and follow the age recommendations, warnings, safety messages and assembly instructions for products. Regularly check the Healthy Canadians Recalls and Safety Alerts database for dangerous toys and take action to remove toys of concern.

NicoSee Wonder Hematite Rattlesnake Eggs, SpaceCare Hematite Magnetic Stone set, and Ruptop Magnetic Pen High-quality Innovative Gel Pen Finger Play Toy

RA-62846