Now that the holiday rush is behind us, this is the perfect time to pause, reset, and do a quick toy safety check around the house. New toys, gadgets, and gifts can easily get mixed in with older items, and that can create hidden hazards we don't always notice in the moment.

Start with a quick clean-out.

Pull toys into one place and look for anything that is broken, missing parts, or no longer played with. Toss what's damaged, and only donate toys that are still safe and complete.

As you sort, take a closer look for:

• Cracked plastic or sharp edges
• Loose screws, loose parts, or tiny pieces that could break off
• Loose or unsecured button batteries in toys, remotes, books, and gadgets
• Small, high-powered magnets
• Frayed cords, chargers, or damaged wiring
• Toys without instructions or safety labels

If something feels questionable, set it aside until you can fix it, or consider getting rid of it.

Think about younger children in the home.

Even if older kids "know better," younger siblings explore with their hands and mouths. Keep small-piece toys, craft sets, magnets, and electronics up high, locked, or in clearly labeled bins.

And please pay special attention to button batteries: they can cause life-threatening injuries if swallowed.

Don't forget recalls.

More toys and children's products are recalled each year than most families realize. Take a minute to check anything new, and anything that feels unsafe.

You can also follow Reese's Purpose for weekly and monthly recall alerts, product warnings, and safety reminders to help you stay informed all year long.

A little time now can prevent emergencies later, and helps make home a safer place for every child who plays there.