Experts at the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission have warned parents against using one type of teething remedy due to it being deemed unsafe.
Amber beads are often sold as baby teething aids in the form of amber teething jewellery including necklaces, bracelets and anklets.
The
notice reads: “Do not use these products as relief for babies who are teething as they are very unsafe and pose several serious risks.”
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Credit: CCPC[/caption]
Some of these risks include:
- Amber teething necklaces, bracelets and anklets pose a potential choking or inhalation hazard to any child under three years of age.
- The jewellery normally contains many small amber beads which can come loose from the string and be swallowed or inhaled, which could cause choking.
- Even if the beads do not break off, amber necklaces, bracelets and anklets are small enough to be swallowed whole by a small child or baby.
- The amber beads used in this type of jewellery can very easily shatter into smaller parts which can also lead to choking.
- You should never put any kind of cord, string or chain jewellery around a baby’s neck.
- If you are unsure about what products you can use for a teething baby ask your GP or public health nurse.
The CCPC also warn: “We consider these products very unsafe and will take appropriate action against suppliers and retailers to remove them from sale. if you are aware of a retailer selling these items of jewellery, please contact us.”
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