WASHINGTON "" The recent recall of 4.4 million Polly Pocket magnetic play sets has prompted the Consumer Product Safety Commission to remind shoppers about toy safety.

Mattel Inc. is recalling the magnetic play sets after three children were hospitalized with serious injuries from swallowing tiny magnets that fell off the toys. The commission is urging shoppers to avoid buying toy sets with small magnets for children younger than 6. Gift buyers also should check the toy labels, select age-appropriate toys and avoid gifts with sharp edges and small parts.

The commission said it received 170 reports of the small magnets falling out from the dolls and accessories in the Polly Pocket sets. Each of the three injured children swallowed more than one magnet and suffered intestinal perforation that required surgery.

Sara Rosales, vice president of communications at Mattel, said the company is working with others in the toy industry, consumer advocates and the government "to make appropriate revisions to the U.S. toy standard to prevent such issues in the future," Rosales said.

Following are some toy safety tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

  • Be a label reader. Look for toy labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide.

  • Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child. Look for sturdy construction such as tightly secured eyes, noses and other potential small parts.

  • For all children under age 8, avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.

  • Avoid building sets with small magnets for children under age 6. If swallowed, serious injuries and/or death can occur.

  • Children younger than age 3 should not be given toys with small parts, which can cause choking.

  • Falls from riding toys, skateboards and in-line skates could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should be sized to fit.

  • Projectile toys such as air rockets, darts and slingshots are for older children. Improper use of these toys can result in serious eye injuries.

  • Chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards to children. Charging batteries should be supervised by adults.

  • Immediately discard plastic wrappings before they become dangerous playthings.

  • Keep toys appropriate for older children away from younger siblings and neighbors.

  • Pay attention to instructions and warnings on battery chargers. Some chargers lack a device to prevent overcharging.