Andrew Wildes, Gleaner Writer
THE GOVERNMENT'S consumer watchdog agency yesterday alerted the public against purchasing a stroller containing "serious defects that could endanger the safety of their child."
According to the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC), the strollers, which do not bear a manufacturer's tag, have been removed from the market. The item ranged in price from $3,000-$3,300. Persons who have purchased the item are being asked to return it to the vendor for a full refund or contact the CAC.
The product removal and warning by the commission come against the background of unsafe products and toys being sold to unsuspecting consumers during the Yuletide season.
Yesterday, The Gleaner saw fire crackers, fireworks, toy guns and a variety of other illegal toys being openly sold throughout the Corporate Area, despite a warning from the police each holiday season. In Tropical Plaza, Half-Way Tree, fireworks were easily available for purchase, with prices ranging from $100 to over $3,000. For sale were Ground Bloom Flower, Rockets, Star-lights, Pirates Revenge and the Mighty Python. On all the packets a strong caution warning is very visible and all products demand adult supervision.
Inspector Victor Henry of the Constabulary Communication Network noted that any form of fireworks or fire crackers that was being sold was illegal as no licence has been granted for their importation.
"There seems to be a misunderstanding of the law on the part of the vendors, who argue that 'clappers' (fire crackers) are illegal but not the other forms of fireworks," said Inspector Henry.
The inspector could not speak to any new plans being implemented to combat the problem, but he noted that when the police see persons with illegal toys they will seize the goods and prosecute the offender.
A number of persons, he said, have already been arrested and their goods seized. Early this month the police issued an advisory that the public should not give toy guns to children as presents for Christmas.
Guidelines for purchasing strollers:
Check manufacturer's height and weight recommendations.
Select a stroller with at least a strap that goes around your child's waist and another between his/her legs.
Make sure the brakes work and are easy to use.
Be sure the stroller locks securely into the open position to prevent it from folding up with your toddler inside.
Source: Today's Parent Magazine
