A U.S. consumer advocacy group is warning parents shopping for holiday gifts for tots to be particularly mindful of lead poisoning, choking hazards and phthalates, chemicals used to make products more flexible.

'Unfortunately, while the product safety bill is a major step forward, many of its protections are not yet fully in effect, so it's still buyer beware this year.'—Elizabeth Hitchcok, Public Interest Research Group

The U.S. Public Interest Research Group on Tuesday released its 23rd annual Trouble in Toyland report, warning consumers that many toys in stores pose safety hazards.

Elizabeth Hitchcock, a public health advocate for the group, said that while U.S. legislators have beefed up consumer protections, the new rules have not yet taken effect.

"Unfortunately, while the product safety bill is a major step forward, many of its protections are not yet fully in effect, so it's still buyer beware this year," Hitchcock said.

The report cautioned parents to avoid buying children's metal jewelry because it may contain high levels of lead, noting the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled more than 150 million pieces of jewelry since 2004.

"Any heavy, cheap jewelry — costume jewelry, kids jewelry — has probably got lead in it," said Ed Mierzwinski, the U.S. PIRG's consumer program director.

High amounts of lead can harm the nervous system, kidneys and other major organs. Anemia, a decline in red blood cells, can occur, as can damage to the nervous system that may impair mental function. In severe cases, lead poisoning can cause seizures or death.

The organization also warned parents about the potential hazards of phthalates — which were partially banned in a bill passed in August 2008. PIRG warned U.S. retailers can continue to sell the toys until their current supplies run out.

"Avoid toys made of PVC plastic, which often contains phthalate softeners," the report said, suggesting caregivers should buy unpainted wood or cloth toys instead.

Choking common cause of deaths linked to toys

Health Canada announced in February it was in the process of revising its voluntary ban on DINP in some products, and plans to block certain phthalates in products for children. The federal agency noted children's potential exposure to phthalates is low, owing to a voluntary ban on DINP in products such as teethers and rattles.

As a guideline, toys that fit inside toilet paper rolls are too small for young children, the PIRG report said, noting choking is the most common cause of deaths linked to toys.

In response to the report, the U.S. Toy Industry Association assured parents that manufacturers are carefully testing toys.

"The toy industry works continuously to strengthen our rigorous testing and inspection procedures and ensure safe toys," the TIA said. "Protecting children will always be our highest priority."

With files from the Associated Press