Consumer Product Safety
Electrical products, batteries, household chemicals, labels, recalls and secondhand-product checks.
Household electrical warning signs
Repeated breaker trips, damaged cords, unusual heat, burning smells, discoloration or sparking are reasons to stop treating an electrical issue as ordinary wear.
Extension cords and power strips: planning awareness
Temporary electrical accessories have ratings and intended uses that should be respected rather than treated as permanent building wiring.
Battery and charging safety awareness
Rechargeable products should be charged and stored according to manufacturer instructions, using compatible equipment and paying attention to recalls or damage.
Household chemical safety
Cleaning and other household chemical products should remain identifiable and be used, stored and disposed of according to their labels and local guidance.
Hazard symbols on consumer products
Hazard symbols and warning words communicate the type and seriousness of a product hazard but should be read together with the rest of the label.
Product recalls: a household safety habit
Checking recalls is a practical way to identify products that manufacturers or regulators say may pose a safety risk.
Secondhand product safety checks
Used products can be good value, but missing labels, unknown modifications, recalls and wear can change the safety picture.