Warning over free kids’ toothbrushes hand out to ‘hundreds’ of families
HAZARD: One of the ‘Brushing for Life’ packs
By Simon Bristow
Parents in Hull who have received a Brushing for Life toothbrush pack for their child are being urged to stop their use immediately over safety concerns.
Hull City Council said “hundreds” of families are thought to have received a pack, which are distributed to parents and carers of children aged up to three, and include a brush and toothpaste.
But concerns were raised by several parents who noticed a suction cup on the bottom of the brush could easily be detached, making it a choking hazard.
Following an investigation supported by the council’s trading standards team, the manufacturer has opted to voluntarily recall the brushes.
The packs have been given out by health visitors, the council’s Early Help Team, and at events.
Julia Weldon, the council’s director of public health, said: “Working with our NHS colleagues, we are taking immediate action to encourage all parents and carers to stop using these brushes and dispose of them.
“We began informing parents before the voluntary recall was confirmed, as it is simply not worth waiting when children could potentially be at risk.
“The Brushing for Life packs have been issued for several years and do include a printed warning that brushes are not toys and must only be used under supervision.
“While no children have come to any harm, the product is clearly not fit for purpose.
“The manufacturer has confirmed it will replace the faulty products as part of the recall.
“As soon as we have an update on how people can get hold of these, we will make people aware”.
Justine Rooke, general manager for children’s and learning disability services at Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The health and safety of the children and families we work with are always at the forefront of everything we do.
“Good oral care for babies and children set the foundations for a lifetime of good dental health.
“We will work with Hull City Council to continue to promote this and provide support and advice to parents through our 0-19 service.”
Anyone whose child has one of the brushes is advised to immediately stop using it and dispose of it.