Parent Alert: Report Says Dollar Tree Crayons Contain Asbestos

A report from a consumer advocacy group says testing has revealed asbestos in crayon sold by CNY retailer Dollar Tree, contain asbestos.

The group, US PIRG Education Fund, conducted testing on several common back-to-school supplies sold by various retailers. The group is urging Dollar Tree to recall their "Playskool" brand crayons after they tested positive for trace amounts of asbestos. When asbestos particles get into the air, they can be breathed in and can lead to lung cancer and mesothelioma, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

“Based on our testing, we know that most manufacturers make safe school supplies. We’re calling on the makers of unsafe products to get rid of toxic chemicals and protect American schoolchildren,” said Kara Cook-Schultz, U.S. PIRG Education Fund Toxics Director.

The group also said three-ring binders sold at Dollar Tree contained high levels of phthalates, and dry-erase markers were found to contain benzene, which can cause cancer - according to Cancer.org.

US PIRG Education Fund has released a shopping guide, showing testing results and giving parents safe alternative products to those that contain dangerous chemicals.

Dollar Tree stores are located throughout Central New York.