Health Tip: Uninflated Balloons Aren’t Safe for Young Children

Health Tip: Uninflated Balloons Aren't Safe for Young Children

(HealthDay News) — Balloons may appear to be a soothing toy for young children, but experts say uninflated balloons are the leading cause of child suffocation.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers this additional information:

  • Children may accidentally inhale an uninflated balloon and suffocate.
  • Children may also swallow or inhale broken pieces of a popped balloon and suffocate.
  • Children under 8 years old should never play with an uninflated balloon.
  • If a balloon bursts, immediately take all pieces away from a young child.