PUTTING SAFETY AHEAD OF SAVINGS
It’s garage sale season again and as bargain hunters prepare to scour local neighborhoods for second-hand deals, Canadians are being reminded to exercise caution to ensure their purchases are safe for reuse.
While sellers are responsible for ensuring their products meet current Canadian safety requirements, there are still many safety tips buyers should know before setting off to garage sales, flea markets, shopping websites and second-hand stores.
Tips to Know Before Going Bargain Hunting
Health Canada advises buyers to steer clear from items that are damaged or cracked, as well as items that have missing or loose parts. Used items that require but are missing safety features, including instructions and warning labels, are also on the list of items not to consider buying. Health Canada also warns against purchasing goods that have been banned or recalled as they could pose a risk to consumer health or safety.
Buyers and sellers seeking more information can access Health Canada’s list of Facts for Garage Sale Vendors . A new booklet entitled Information to Shoppers of Second-Hand Products contains health and safety information about products such as children's sleepwear, toys and window blinds, and will be available to the public this summer.
