Kids & Baby

Yes. Health Canada says the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act and its Toys Regulations apply to toys manufactured, imported, advertised or sold in Canada. The rules cover mechanical, flammability, chemical, electrical and other hazards, and other regulations under the Act deal with specific risks. A Canadian maker and an overseas factory face the same requirements.

Yes. The safety rules apply to toys made or sold in Canada regardless of the size of the business, so a home studio selling wooden toys has the same obligations as a large company. When buying handmade toys, ask the maker how they make sure their products meet Health Canada's requirements, including for small parts and finishes.

Transport Canada says it is illegal to import and use a child car seat in Canada that does not meet Canadian standards, and provincial and territorial laws do not allow those seats to be used. Seats bought outside Canada, including online from non-Canadian sellers, may not carry the National Safety Mark. Look for that label on the seat before you buy.

Search the Government of Canada's Recalls and safety alerts website by product name or brand. It lists recalls for toys, children's products, car seats and more. Registering a product with the maker, when they offer it, means you can be contacted directly if there is a problem. Small makers may also post notices on their own sites.

Check the fibre content, which Canadian textile labels must show in English and French, and choose soft fabrics that handle frequent washing. Look at closures: snaps and zippers that stay put are easier than tiny buttons, and nothing should be loose enough to pull off. Ask whether sizing runs large, since many parents buy a size up.