Consumers should immediately stop using this magnetic game due to ingestion risks, agency warns

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Category: Health

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Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. dispose of (something) / dɪˈspoʊz ʌv / (phrasal v.) – to throw or destroy something
    Example:

    People are reminded to dispose of old batteries by bringing them to recycling centers.


  2. ingestion / ɪnˈʤɛst ʃən / (n.) – the process of taking in something into one’s body, usually by swallowing
    Example:

    He was brought to the hospital because of accidental ingestion of harmful chemicals.


  3. hazardous / ˈhæz ər dəs / (adj.) – involving risk, especially on someone’s health or safety
    Example:

    The road conditions became hazardous after the heavy rain.


  4. urge / ɜrdʒ / (v.) – to strongly convince someone to do something
    Example:

    The CEO’s business partners urged the CEO to approve the new project.


  5. blockage / ˈblɒk ɪdʒ / (n.) – something that stops the flow or movement of something, such as a liquid, air, or traffic
    Example:

    My dad removed the blockage in the kitchen sink.


Article

Read the text below.

The Consumer Product and Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning people to immediately dispose of a magnetic game because it poses serious ingestion risks for children.


The CPSC posted a warning that “Magnetic Chess Games” sold by JOMO contain magnets that do not comply with U.S. federal safety regulations. As a result, the “loose, hazardous magnets pose a risk of serious injury or death,” according to the warning.


The CPSC said it issued a violation notice to JOMO, but that the company has not agreed to recall its Magnetic Chess Games or provide a remedy. The commission urged people to stop using the game and throw it away immediately.


The games were sold online at walmart.com in a blue box with the word “magnetic” on the front and back, according to the CPSC. They include about 20 loose black magnets but not chess-shaped pieces, despite its marketing.


It’s unclear when or how long these games were sold. A CPSC spokesperson said the commission could not provide further information since JOMO is not cooperating.


A Walmart spokesperson said customers’ health and safety are the company’s top priority and that it began working to remove the games soon after the CPSC warning was issued.


Experts have long noted the serious health hazards tied to swallowing magnets, with children particularly at risk. When high-powered magnets are ingested, the CPSC noted, they can attract each other or another metal object in the body and become lodged in the digestive system—potentially resulting in blockage, infection, blood poisoning or death.


Overall, the CPSC estimates a total of 2,400 magnet ingestions were treated in hospitals annually between 2017 and 2021. The commission said it is aware of eight related deaths from 2005 through 2021, two of which were outside the U.S.


This article was provided by The Associated Press.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

  • What should be the accountability of companies like JOMO with regard to consumer safety (ex. they should comply with safety regulations, dispose of the product)? What is the most effective way to ensure consumer safety? Discuss.
  • In cases where a company refuses to recall a dangerous product, do you think legal or financial penalties should be imposed? In your opinion, what kind of penalties would be appropriate? Discuss.

Discussion B

  • Between 2017 and 2021, a total of 2,400 magnet ingestions were treated in hospitals each year. Why do you think children are at risk of swallowing small objects like magnets? What can schools do to teach children about not putting small objects in their mouths? Discuss.
  • In your country, how do people identify toys or products that might be unsafe or a health hazard to young children? What do you do when you use a product that seems to be unsafe or a health hazard not only to children but also to adults? Discuss.