KidsBank Chester

What safety checks should I make before donating?

Buggies, prams and strollers
There are three things you must check:

• There should be a reference to the following safety standards somewhere on the product: BS 7409 or BSEN 1888:2003. The label with these details is usually found on the frame or seat covering.
• A permanent notice on the buggy must state: Children should be harnessed in at all times and should never be left unattended. The child should be clear of moving parts while making adjustments. This vehicle requires regular maintenance by the user. Overloading, incorrect folding and the use of non- approved accessories may damage or break this vehicle. Read the instructions.
• Instructions should be supplied with each buggy. They should relate to the operation, assembly, use and maintenance of the vehicle. If the original instructions are lost, then replacements can usually be downloaded from the internet.

Things to check before donating:

• Do the brakes work? Lock, unlock and push in both settings to check.
• We can’t usually order replacement wheels or easily fix broken ones, so please check these are all in good working order.
• Will it fold securely (so that it can be picked up and moved without coming undone), and then ‘lock’ into place once unfolded?
• Is the harness intact and still working?
• Is there any damage like sharp or worn edges or torn fabric that could compromise the buggy or pram’s overall stability?
• Is the buggy clean and in a condition that you’d be happy to use for your child?
• Have you included a rain cover that fits?

Cots and cotbeds
There should be reference to the following safety standard somewhere on the product: EN716

Things to check before donating:

• Have you securely attached all the nails, screws, etc. required?
• Do you have all 4 bars and are they all intact?
• Do you have all the parts required to build it?
• Is there any other damage that could compromise the stability of the cot?
• Have you included an instruction manual?

High chairs
There should be reference to the following safety standard somewhere on the product: BS 14988-1

Things to check before donating:

• Is there a harness that goes around the child’s waist and between their legs?
• Is there any damage to the base which could compromise its overall stability?
• If it is a folding highchair, is it stable and do all the locks work?
• Is the highchair clean and in good condition?

Toys
All children’s toys must meet strict safety requirements, whether they are new or second-hand. All new toys are required to bear a CE mark, which is a declaration that the toy complies with safety requirements.

When you receive a second-hand toy to pass on, whether CE marked or not, you should thoroughly inspect it to ensure that it is not unsafe. In particular, please check that any batteries are securely screwed in.