Are childrens' toys too noisy?

Beware of buzz, beep and vroom! Toys that make noise may not be safe, according to Rebecca Younk, product training and education program maanager for Amplifon USA.

Due to the noise levels of certain toys, Younk says the play items that look safe for children this holiday season may not be safe at all.

"Some toys can cause hearing damage in as little as 15 minutes or less," said Younk. "Unfortunately, there are no current U.S. regulations governing the sound level of toys. Although the American Society for Testing Materials has adopted rules for soundproducing toys, manufacturers aren't required to comply. During holiday shopping, we want to warn parents how harmful noisy toys can be to their children and others."

The level of sound is measured in units called decibels (dB). According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the risk level of developing noiseinduced hearing loss begins at 85 dB. Noise levels higher than 85 dB can cause permanent hearing damage.

Some toys with high decibel levels include Cars Ghost Light Ramone by Fisher Prince (118.5 dB), Power Gear Extreme Command System by SRM Entertainment Ltd. (114 dB), Cars The King by Fisher Price (113 dB), Little Einsteins Create a Masterpiece by Fisher Price (112.3 dB) and Hannah Montana InConcert Collection singing doll by JAKKS Pacific Inc. (110.9 dB).

Everyday harmful noises include a jet plane taking off (120 dB), rock concert (110 dB) snowmobile or chainsaw (100 dB) and shop tools or lawnmower (90 dB).

Hearing loss happens gradually and may not occur with one exposure. Repeated exposure will include the likelihood of hearing loss. Also, children tend to hold toys close to their ears, which increases the possibility of ear damage.

Parents are encouraged to visit www.sightandhearing.org to read facts about noise-induced hearing loss and to view the annual Noisy Toys Study that lists toys to avoid.

This story is provided by MiracleEar. The local representative is Steve Kolodin for Simi Valley and Westlake Village.