Doctors in emergency departments are cautioning parents to steer clear of a “naughty list” of potentially dangerous gifts for children this holiday season. The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne has identified e-scooters and toys containing magnets and button batteries as particularly hazardous.

Though these items might appear to be exciting presents, trauma surgeons emphasize the significant safety risks they pose when given to young children. Button batteries, often hidden within small toys or even car keys, are especially concerning due to their tendency to be swallowed by curious youngsters.

Warwick Teague, the director of trauma at the RCH, highlights the severity of the threat, explaining that these small batteries can inflict serious harm within a mere two hours after ingestion.

Button batteries are often found in small toys or car keys, and are easily swallowed by a child.

The director of trauma at the RCH, Warwick Teague, says they can cause serious harm in just two hours.

“A button battery creates a chemical reaction and electrical charge between the walls of a child’s oesophagus or swallowing tube, which can fry that tube, causing serious bleeding,” he said.

Teague says other small items such as magnetic balls, often found in construction or sensory toys, can also be easily swallowed.

“Unfortunately, they’re the perfect size and shape for a little one to put in their mouth. If swallowed, sometimes the magnets in these balls stick together inside children, twisting and causing holes or tears in the bowel,” he said.

“They can make children dangerously sick and they’re really difficult to remove.”

Doctors are also warning parents to avoid e-scooters, pointing to a spike in serious injuries, such as broken bones, every Christmas from children riding the machines.

They should ensure toys meet Australian Safety standards and avoid buying cheap products sold in variety stores or online.

If you think your child has ingested a button battery or a magnet, call triple zero immediately, or head to your closest emergency department.