A large-scale inspection of carnival costumes and toys is launching in Cyprus

Ahead of carnival events and Valentine’s Day, the Cyprus Consumer Protection Service has announced the launch of a large-scale inspection and awareness campaign aimed primarily at ensuring children’s safety.

The campaign will take place from February 5 to February 11, 2026. During this period, inspectors will check more than 55 retail outlets across the island, paying special attention to carnival costumes, accessories, toys, and plush products, demand for which traditionally increases at this time.

The main objective of the inspections is to identify and withdraw dangerous and non-compliant products. This includes:

• carnival masks and costumes;
• wigs and accessories;
• toys and soft (plush) products.

According to the Service, dangerous products in this category were already registered in the European Safety Gate system during 2023–2025. They were deemed unsafe due to:

• high flammability of materials;
• the presence of small parts;
• easily detachable small batteries and other elements posing health risks.

The Consumer Protection Service urges citizens to:

• stop using dangerous products;
• return them to the seller for replacement or a refund;
• if return is not possible, immediately inform the Service.

For additional information or to submit a complaint, citizens may:

• contact the Service via its official website;
• call 22 200 923, 22 200 925, or the hotline 1429.

Detailed information and brochures on children’s toy safety, including recommendations on protecting children from small objects, are also available on the Service’s website.