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Bargain Hunting this Holiday? Don't Forget to Consider Safety
Written by ARA Content Friday, 05 December 2008 21:43 Last Updated on Monday, 30 November 2009 15:17
(ARA) – All signs point to holiday shoppers spending less and expecting more for their money this year. But while you’re deal-hunting in discount stores, remember that a gift is no bargain if it compromises the safety of a loved-one.
“Not all products found online or on store shelves meet important safety standards,” says John Drengenberg, manager of Consumer Affairs for Underwriters Laboratories (UL), one of the world’s leading independent product safety certification organizations. “With so many gifts to choose from, safety is one thing that should not be overlooked.”
“You don’t have to blow your budget to find gifts that have been tested and certified,” says Drengenberg. By following a few tips, it’s easy to make safety a priority when shopping for loved ones:
* Shop at retailers you know and trust, whether online or in the mall. Many reputable retailers require their products to be UL-LISTED, meaning the items have been rigorously tested and evaluated for potential risk of fire, shock and/or personal injury.
* Look for the UL Mark – the letters “UL” inside a circle – and the word “LISTED” in capital letters on the product or its packaging to determine whether the product has been properly certified.
* Examine packaging. Be wary of products in boxes or packages that do not offer the brand name, the product name and the manufacturer’s name with contact information for reporting problems.
Electronic gifts are likely to be hot sellers again this year. Items like flat screen TVs, digital cameras, cell phones, GPS systems, and gaming systems and accessories will be on the must-have list for many. UL offers tips for evaluating these popular gift items:
* Look for the UL Mark on any electronics you purchase. The UL Mark means that the product has been tested for foreseeable safety hazards.
* When purchasing big-ticket items like TVs or laptops, research the product’s safety and customer satisfaction records with reputable independent ratings organizations like Consumer Reports. Pay close attention to the average safety and repair rating of the item.
* Safety is especially important when shopping for toys with electrical components. Look for the UL Mark on toys’ adapter/power supply units and chargers.
* Pay close attention to the recommended age designation marked on the toy or its packaging. Always make sure the child’s age matches or exceeds the manufacturer’s recommended age specification.
* Read the manufacturer’s warning marks and, if applicable, the use and care booklet before children play with a new toy. Initially and periodically inspect toys for cracks, breaks, ripped seams, etc.
“The economy will likely have people spending less on holiday gifts, while recent headlines about product recalls may have them more concerned about safety,” says Drengenberg. “Fortunately, it’s simple to find a safety-tested gift if you look for the UL Mark.”
To learn more about how to have a safer and worry-free holiday, please visit, www.ul.com/newsroom/gift.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
