The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Garage sales are a popular pastime during summer months. Who hasn't boasted about the fabulous deal they found that one Saturday morning? But sometimes you have to ask yourself if that purchase was really a bargain. When it comes to safety, both garage sale buyers and sellers must beware. Garage sale appliances are among the worst safety offenders. Think twice before you buy, especially when it comes to refrigerators. Yesterday's model may come at a bargain-basement price but the operating costs are sky high. There may be a good reason the seller is getting rid of that old toaster or blender. Check the cord and plug condition and be aware of missing parts. If the correct model number of the appliance is available, you might find parts such as mixer beaters and coffee carafes with relative ease. But some replacement parts, like a slow cooker liner and electric knife blades, are more expensive than a new unit. And for safety's sake, leave any technical repairs to an expert, as there is the potential for electric shock. Just remember though that a repair bill may be higher than the cost of a new appliance. Anyone who holds a garage sale is legally responsible to ensure that all products sold meet current safety standards. The Hazardous Product Act outlines safety requirements for certain consumer products, notably baby gates, cribs, and car seats. For instance, a baby gate that has a large diamond shaped opening cannot be sold and a crib made before 1986 should be destroyed. Additionally, a car seat must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety standards and carry a compliance label. For more product information, visit Health Canada's Web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.
