Christmas message from SNP MSP Clare Adamson: how to shop safely and where to find help if things go wrong

Candles and Christmas tree lights pose a risk this festive season. MSP issues advice and guidance on ‘elf and safety’ matters

Can I begin by wishing everyone the best for the festive period.

This will be a Christmas against the backdrop of a cost-of-living crisis. With budgets tight, it is understandable to look for savings. But, remember, Trading Standards tells us that if a bargain looks too good to be true – then it probably is.

You could be putting yourself, friends or loved ones at risk from faulty or sub-standard goods, particularly from online marketplaces. Buying from online platforms may not give you the consumer rights you would expect from trusted traders.

Shoppers hunting for online bargains may end up disappointed and their consumer rights affected, warns MSP

Safety charity Electrical Safety First (ESF) has found that a quarter of people in the UK have fallen victim to counterfeit scams when shopping online and one in ten have first-hand experience of an electrical fire or shock caused by an electrical product they have purchased online. If you experience a faulty or dangerous product, it is vital that you report it to Trading Standards who work tirelessly to keep such goods off the market.

Shopping advice

There are a number of tips to be aware of when you are thinking about saving money online.

Be wary of products with unverified glowing reviews.

Most reputable retailers don’t need to sell their products by labelling them ‘real’, ‘genuine’, or ‘authentic. If you are buying on platforms such as Amazon, Ebay, Wish, Etsy or other online retailers, remember you may be buying from a third party, as it is not always clear on the face of the product page.

Look for websites that allow you to pay safely – these have a padlock symbol at the bottom of the screen when you are filling in your payment details. If you can’t see it, do not enter your payment details.

Safety

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to be mindful of candles, fairy lights and Christmas packaging that may present fire or tripping hazards.

For all parents and carers – especially of younger children – be mindful of choking hazards. All toys that need button batteries should have them securely fitted in the product with a screw – if button are loose or ‘spares ‘ are provided, there is a chance this product does not meet relevant safety standards and could harm or even kill your child.

Over the festive season, please consider carefully the products you are buying. Use the free resources produced by charities like Electrical Safety First,

the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT), and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

Remember that the best gift you can give is your love and your time –spending quality time with friends and loves ones will make the best memories.

Things are undoubtedly tough right now. So we must look out for each other and enjoy the festive break in the spirit of empathy and kindness to those around us.

I wish you all a very happy – and safe – Christmas when it comes.

And remember, ‘Elf and Safety’ is for life – not just Christmas.

Where to find help and guidance

To contact Clare for guidance or help please click here.