According to a report from the New York Post, experts are warning parents about several popular items that have been landing children in the emergency room. These seemingly harmless objects include scalding curling irons, tiny desk magnets, and speedy electric scooters. The hazards posed by these items are more common than most people realize, putting children at risk of serious injuries.

Research unveiled at the American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference, as reported by NBC News, highlighted the dangers associated with these items. Dr. Leah Middelberg, a pediatrics emergency medicine physician at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, focused her research on the risks of desk magnets. These stress-relieving spheres that serve as fidget toys can easily be swallowed or inserted into the nose or ears of young children. Middelberg's analysis of data from 2017 to 2019 collected by 25 hospitals revealed nearly 600 cases of magnet-related accidents. The ingestion of multiple magnets can lead to internal blockages and bleeding, posing significant health risks. Dr. Middelberg hopes for new safety regulations for magnets to prevent such accidents in children.

Another common household item, curling irons, can pose a burn hazard to young children. These appliances can reach temperatures as high as 450 degrees Fahrenheit, making them potentially dangerous to curious children under the age of 10. Dr. Brandon Rozanki, a pediatric resident at Honolulu's Tripler Army Medical Center, analyzed data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, revealing that there were 31,000 hair tool-related burn injuries in individuals under the age of 24 between 2013 and 2022. While most cases did not require medical attention, Dr. Rozanki advises parents to keep hot styling tools out of the reach of young children until they are older.

In addition, electric scooters have emerged as a risk to teenage boys aged 16 to 18. Research conducted by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, using data from U.S. emergency departments, showed a 71% surge in electric scooter-related injuries from 2020 to 2021, with a total of 13,500 reported cases. The popularity of electric scooters, particularly in metropolitan areas like New York City, has led to an increase in accidents and injuries. Pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. J. Todd Lawrence of the children's hospital emphasizes the need for more bicycle and scooter lanes to prevent accidents and for educating riders about road safety. He also advises against purchasing high-speed scooters for young teenagers, as they can reach dangerous speeds.

These findings highlight the importance of being aware of potential risks associated with commonly used items. Parents are urged to keep magnets, curling irons, and electric scooters out of reach of young children or ensure proper safety measures are in place to prevent accidents. Authorities and experts are also advocating for stricter regulations and safety standards surrounding these products to safeguard the well-being of children.