Consumer Watchdog Group Releases 'Ten Worst Toys Of The Year' List

BOSTON (CBS) -- With the holiday season approaching, a consumer watchdog group is pointing out their picks for the year's most dangerous toys.

Each year, W.A.T.C.H. (World Against Toys Causing Harm, Inc.) releases their 'Ten Worst Toys Of The Year' list.

This year, that list includes a realistic-looking, foam dart-firing toy pistol. The dart gun's manufacturer boasts of the toy's cool styling, and recommends it for ages three and up. But the darts can cause serious eye injuries, especially if the rubber tips are removed.

W.A.T.C.H. president Joan Siff is most concerned because the toy gun looks real.

"In this day and age, there's really no excuse to hand a child a toy that looks like a real weapon," said Siff.

Other items on the list this year include a toy sword, a folding trampoline, and a doctor play set.

Photos: See the W.A.T.C.H.'s Worst Toys of 2015

There have been 16 toy recalls in 2015, with 300,000 units recalled due to safety concerns. But while dangerous toys include those with parts small enough to be choking hazards or strings and cords long enough to strangle little ones, Siff said that the hazards aren't always so obvious.

"Sometimes it's a piece of a toy that's shoddily made that can break off after purchase," said Siff. "The parents really need to inspect the toy physically before handing it to their child."

Siff and W.A.T.C.H. are also raising awareness this year about the potential dangers of toys bought online.

"Consumers buying toys on the Internet, they're already at a disadvantage, not being able to thoroughly inspect and physically examine a toy for more obvious hazards," said Siff. "They may not be provided with complete product information and safety information."

For more information on toy hazards and this year's 'Ten Worst Toys Of The Year' list, go to toysafety.org.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Mike Macklin reports