Health Canada reminds Canadians that garage sales should also be a time for safety as well as bargains

Advisory
2005-36
May 4, 2005
For immediate release

OTTAWA - Health Canada is reminding Canadians that items sold at garage sales, flea markets, and second-hand stores may pose potential hazards. Canadians should be aware that the laws that apply to the sale of new products also apply to the sale of second hand items.

Vendors are responsible for ensuring that all items sold or distributed at garage sales, flea markets, and second-hand stores fulfill the requirements of the Hazardous Products Act.

In order to assist vendors and buyers, Health Canada is reissuing its bulletin entitled Facts for Garage Sale Vendors. This bulletin provides safety information about common garage sale products, such as children's sleepwear, car seats, baby gates, playpens, strollers, and sports equipment.

Vendors and consumers should take note that the sale of baby walkers in Canada became illegal in 2004. Cribs that were manufactured before September 1986 do not conform with the current legislation and are prohibited from sale under the Hazardous Products Act. It is also illegal to sell lawn darts with elongated tips. These items must not be sold and should be destroyed prior to disposal.

For more information on the safety of second-hand consumer products, please visit Health Canada's web site or call 1-866-662-0666. E-mail inquiries may be sent to: cps-spc@hc-sc.gc.ca (Please indicate the province or territory from which you are corresponding).

• Facts For Garage Sale Vendors
• Consumer Product Safety - Reports and Publications

The public is also reminded that some products are covered by the Radiation Emitting Devices Act and it is also illegal to sell them if they do not meet current standards. This includes such items as microwave ovens, UV facial lamps and personal tanning equipment. Inquiries regarding the resale of these items may be directed to (613) 954-6699 or by email to ccrpb-psrcc@hc-sc.gc.ca

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Media Inquiries:
Paul Duchesne
Health Canada
954-4807

Public Enquiries:
(613) 957-2991