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Keep Small Children Safe this Season

Tis’ the season for giving and if you are giving gifts to little ones, please remember these simple tips to prevent choking hazards and other injuries.

1. Do a size test. If the toy can fit into a toilet paper roll, it may be a choking hazard for children 3 and under.

2. Fire resistant. Look for toys with fabric that is labeled as flame resistant or flame retardant.

3. Locked batteries. Be sure that battery operated toys have cases with secure locks (screwdriver required).

4. Non-toxic. Avoid toys made with toxic materials such as paint and dye which can cause poisoning. Check that the label says “non-toxic”.

5. No stray pieces. Toys with hanging or excess ribbon, string or material to hang poses a strangulation risk and should be used carefully around younger children.

6. Check for recalls. Visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for information about toy and product recalls.

For more information on toy safety, visit the CPSC website here.

Dr. Tara Ioffe

Family Practice

Dr. Tara Ioffe is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Family Medicine physician with a strong commitment to providing excellent care to her patients. She obtained her medical degree from Avalon University in Curacao and went on to complete her Family Medicine Residency at the University of Oklahoma. She has worked at the University of Chicago and most recently NorthShore University. She has since returned to Chicago and is thrilled to join the IWS Family Health team in 2023, where she will continue to provide excellent care to her patients.

Throughout her career, Dr. Ioffe has gained experience in diverse medical fields, such as immediate and urgent care medicine while working at NorthShore Immediate Care. She did clinical research at the University of Chicago. Dr. Ioffe strives to foster a secure and inclusive environment for all her patients. She believes in an integrated approach to medicine, dedicating her time to understand each patient’s unique needs.

During her leisure time, Dr. Ioffe indulges in reading a variety of books for pleasure, plays boardgames, and loves to explore Chicago with her spouse and young child.