Are electronic dartboards safe for children? | Neofuns Expert Guide

Are Electronic Dartboards Safe for Children?

Electronic dartboards have become popular both for casual play and competitive environments. When it comes to children, safety is the foremost concern for parents and facility operators considering a purchase. Based on the latest industry data and safety reviews, electronic dartboards are generally safer than traditional steel-tip dartboards due to their use of soft-tip darts, reducing the chances of injury.

What Are the Risks of Injury with Electronic Dartboards?

Soft-tip darts typically used with electronic dartboards have plastic tips, which significantly reduce the risk of puncture wounds or serious injury. According to a 2023 Market Watch report on recreational injury trends, dart-related injuries decreased by 22% when soft-tip darts were used compared to steel-tip darts. However, minor bruises or eye injuries can still occur if proper supervision is lacking.

What Is the Recommended Age for Children to Use Electronic Dartboards?

Most manufacturers recommend children aged 8 and older to use electronic dartboards, considering hand-eye coordination and maturity required to play safely. The Dart Machine Manufacturers Association (DMMA) guidelines emphasize that adult supervision is crucial for kids below 12 years old and highlight that children above 14 typically play without incident when rules are followed.

Are Electronic Dartboards Made from Child-Safe Materials?

Leading dartboard producers use flame-retardant, non-toxic plastics certified under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). For example, the WinmaX and Arachnid models include high-impact ABS plastic surfaces designed to withstand bursts of gameplay while being free from harmful substances, ensuring toys meet U.S. safety standards.

How Can Buyers Ensure They Purchase Safe Electronic Dartboards for Children?

When procuring electronic dartboards for environments frequented by children, buyers should consider the following:

• Verify the use of soft-tip darts only.
• Look for products with certification labels such as ASTM F963 or CPSIA compliance.
• Choose products with built-in safety features like dart tip retraction or secure dart holders.
• Check reviews focusing on durability and child safety features.
• Procure from reputable brands with clear age recommendations and safety warnings.

What Are Best Practices for Children Playing with Electronic Dartboards?

Enforcing safety protocols is key to minimizing risks. Industry experts suggest:

• Supervision by adults, especially for younger children.
• Ensuring children stand a safe distance away from the dartboard (recommended 7 feet, 9.25 inches from the board face to throwing line).
• Training children on proper throw techniques and handling of darts.
• Regularly inspecting darts and boards for damage or wear.
• Educating users about the importance of not distracting throwers and no horseplay near the dartboard area.

By following these guidelines, electronic dartboards can be a safe, enjoyable experience for children and help industry buyers select suitable machines with confidence.