FridayOL

Singapore - A harrowing incident has left a seven-year-old boy in Singapore hospitalised after swallowing two high-powered magnets from a popular children’s game, sparking urgent calls for a ban from his distraught parents. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in seemingly harmless toys.

The boy, whose identity is being withheld to protect his privacy, required emergency open surgery at a local hospital to remove the magnets. Doctors confirmed that the magnets, significantly stronger than traditional toy magnets, had become lodged in his digestive system. The severity of the situation arose from the risk of internal damage as the magnets attracted each other through intestinal walls, potentially causing perforations and life-threatening complications.

“It was terrifying,” said the boy’s mother, speaking anonymously. “He was playing with the game, and we didn't realise he had swallowed them. We only found out when he started complaining of severe abdominal pain. The doctors said it was incredibly lucky we caught it when we did.”

The game in question, which has gained considerable popularity online, involves small, powerful magnets that children use to construct various shapes and figures. However, concerns have been raised about the game's safety, particularly the risk of children swallowing the magnets and suffering serious internal injuries. This incident isn't isolated; reports of similar cases have emerged in other countries, prompting parents and safety advocates to call for stricter regulations and a complete ban on the product.

Why are these magnets so dangerous?

Unlike traditional toy magnets, these 'high-powered' or 'rare earth' magnets exert a significantly stronger force. This means that if swallowed, they can attract each other through bodily tissue, causing severe damage. The magnets can pinch the intestines, perforate organs, and even lead to infection and sepsis. The symptoms can be subtle initially, making early detection challenging. Parents are urged to be vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if they suspect their child has swallowed a magnet.

Calls for Action

The boy’s parents are now actively campaigning for the game to be banned in Singapore and other countries. They have started an online petition and are working with consumer safety groups to raise awareness about the dangers. “We don’t want any other family to go through what we’ve been through,” the father stated. “This game is a serious hazard, and it needs to be removed from shelves immediately.”

The Consumer Protection Agency in Singapore has acknowledged the concerns and stated that it is investigating the matter. They are urging parents to carefully supervise their children when playing with toys and to be aware of potential hazards. They also advise that any toy with small parts should be kept out of reach of young children.

Safety Tips for Parents

• Supervise playtime: Always supervise young children when they are playing with toys, especially those with small parts.
• Check toy safety: Regularly inspect toys for any signs of damage or missing parts.
• Educate your children: Teach your children about the dangers of swallowing small objects.
• Seek medical attention: If you suspect your child has swallowed a magnet, seek immediate medical attention.