Child safety
Lock away high-powered magnets
Lock away small high-powered magnets and magnetic toys; count every piece before and after closely supervised play.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12
Why it matters
If two or more strong magnets are swallowed, they can attract through bowel tissue and cause severe internal injury.
Wrong action
Leave small strong magnets within reach or continue play after a magnet goes missing.
Correct action
Lock magnets and magnetic toys away, supervise use, and count every piece before and after.
What to do
- Count all magnets on a table away from young children and note the total.
- Stay beside the child during play and prevent magnets going into the mouth, nose, or ears.
- Count again afterward; if a piece is damaged or missing, stop play, isolate the full set, and tell the employer.
If something happens
If swallowing is possible, do not induce vomiting even without symptoms; call 999 or go to emergency care and mention magnets.
Sources and review
- Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department — Toy Safety
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.