Newsroom
With children’s safety at the forefront, the Consumer Protection Service is launching a nationwide inspection and awareness campaign focusing on carnival toys and costumes, ahead of this year’s festivities. The campaign runs from 5 to 11 February, during which inspectors will visit more than 55 retail outlets across Cyprus.
The aim is simple but crucial: to prevent potentially dangerous products from reaching children’s hands.
According to the Service, inspections will also extend to plush toys, as demand for these items rises sharply in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day. Authorities have noted that such products can pose serious risks when they do not meet safety standards.
In recent years, a number of carnival-related products have been flagged as dangerous through the European Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Products (SAFETY GATE). These include masks, costumes, wigs and toys that were found to be highly flammable, or that contained small detachable parts and batteries that could be swallowed by young children.
Officials are urging parents to be particularly vigilant when purchasing carnival items and to immediately stop using any product they believe may be unsafe. Consumers who already own such items are advised to return them to the store for replacement or refund and to notify the Consumer Protection Service without delay.
Beyond inspections, the campaign also focuses on informing retailers and consumers alike. The Service’s website hosts detailed guidance on toy safety, including advice on avoiding hazards caused by small objects and choosing age-appropriate products.
