October 19, 2004
Contact: Abena Foreman-Trice
(434) 243-2734
Toy Jewelry Recall
They seem like harmless trinkets for kids to enjoy but some have been found to carry a toxic substance that can be harmful. The Blue Ridge Poison Center staff at the University of Virginia Health System report that rings, necklaces and bracelets sold nationwide in gumball style vending machines between January 2002 and June 2004 may contain lead and have been recalled. Many children still own this jewelry and some vending machines still contain the recalled jewelry. Lead is harmful to children and can cause behavior, learning, hearing and growing problems. Pictures of the jewelry can be found at: www.toyjewelryrecall.com. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that the jewelry be thrown away as soon as possible. For questions, call the Blue Ridge Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
###