Lead Paint Recall: Construction Toy Set

A construction toy play set has been recalled due to high levels of lead paint. Though the toy set was distributed in Iowa, by DDI Inc., it was manufactured in China, a country that continues to import goods that exceed federal lead paint standards. There are 3,000 units of the toy set involved in the recall and the toys were sold through October and December 2008. Hardware retail stores, farm stores and home centers distributed the toys nationwide.

Lead paint continues to be one of the greatest threats to growing children. The FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Protection are continually enacting measures to reduce the threat of lead exposure to Americans. The dangers of lead exposure are great and the effects accumulate over time. Handling a product with lead and then touching the mouth can transmit lead into the bloodstream. Children who play with items that have lead are at great danger as the effects of lead poisoning can wreak havoc on a child's health.

Lead has been shown to cause impaired growth and learning in children and can affect babies still in the womb. If the mother has high levels of lead in her blood, this can pass to the baby and cause birth defects. The only safe exposure to lead is no exposure and every citizen must pursue steps to avoid contact with lead. Though lead paint has been banned in the United States since 1978, older homes still have high levels of lead, as many walls have been painted over or wall papered, leaving the toxic paint underneath. Children's toys, however, may be imported from countries that do not have a ban or regulate lead levels. It is only after those products have been distributed and sold that they are identified or tested for lead.

If your child has the construction play set you are advised to take the toy away from him or her immediately. You can bring the toy back to the original purchasing place for a refund. For any questions regarding the recall, obtaining a refund, or the products involved you may contact DDI Inc., of Iowa. If you are concerned regarding your child's health, see your health care provider and discuss having your child's blood tested for high lead levels. Lead continues to stay in the blood stream and is not easily eradicated, allowing it to accumulate and cause health problems over time. The only way to determine lead levels in the blood is through testing.

For more information contact DDI Inc., at:

1-800-220-2390

8:00 A.M. through 4:00 P.M. Eastern Time

http://www.ddiretail.com