Magnet safety

Keep curious hands safe from hidden dangers of high strength magnets

Magnets are intriguing objects that often capture the interest and curiosity of very young children. From educational toys and fashion objects, to craft items, model trains and electronics, high strength magnets are commonly found in many household items. While these small objects can be entertaining and educational, they pose a significant risk to very young children and teenagers - they can kill or lead to serious life changing injuries if they are swallowed or inhaled, making it crucial for parents, carers, and families to be well-informed and vigilant.

Why are magnets dangerous?

Swallowing hazards

If more than one magnet is swallowed, they can attract each other through the walls of the intestines, causing serious injuries such as
perforations, blockages, and infections.

Choking risks

Small magnets can be a choking hazard, particularly for infants and toddlers who explore the world by putting objects in their mouths

Inhalation dangers

Tiny magnets can be accidentally inhaled, leading to respiratry complications.

Where can magnets be found?

Small, high strength magbets are found in many common household items, such as:

DIY craft kits: Some kits include small magnets for various projects.
Model making: Magnets might be used in certain model kits for holding parts together.
Magnetic building sets: Some children's construction toys use small high-strength magnets.
Magnetic dart boards: The darts and board contain magnets to hold the darts in place.
Speakers and headphones: Many speakers and headphones contain strong magnets.
Hard drives: Inside old computer hard drives, you can find powerful neodymium magnets.
Tools: Magnetic tool holders or magnetic screwdrivers often contain strong magnets.

Have you completed a magnet audit of your home?

A magnet audit involves a thorough check of your home to identify products containing magnets, such as desk ornaments, toys, and other household items.

To assist you in this process, we have developed free, simple prevention checklist. We know that life’s busy, but by taking a few minutes to walk around your home and going through the prevention checklist, you can help keep curious hands safe from the dangers of magnets.

Top 4 magnet safety tips for parents and carers:

1. Keep magnets out of reach

✓ Store magnets in a secure place where children cannot access them

✓ Ensure that toys containing magnets are suitable for the child’s age and are intact without any loose or broken parts.

2. Educate your children

✓ Explain to your children why magnets are dangerous and why they should not be put in their mouths or near their noses.

✓ Supervise playtime, especially with toys that have small parts or magnetic components.

3. Inspect toys regularly

✓ Check toys for any signs of wear and tear that might expose magnets.

✓ Dispose of any damaged toys immediately to prevent accidental ingestion.

4. Be vigilant with household items

✓ Be aware of household items that may contain small magnets, such as fridge magnets, jewellery, and certain electronics.

✓ Keep such items out of reach and supervise their use.

What to do in an emergency

If you suspect your child has swallowed or inhaled a magnet:

Seek immediate medical attention. Time is crucial to prevent severe complications.
Do not try to make your child vomit.
Provide the medical professionals with as much information as possible about the incident, including the type and number of magnets involved.

Futher advice and resources

Magnet audit checklist

Download our FREE magnet prevention checklist, to help keep curious hands safe from the dangers of magnets.

Download now

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