Health Canada is reminding Canadians about the potential hazards of items sold at garage sales

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May 8 2004

Health Canada is reminding Canadians about the potential hazards of items sold at garage sales, flea markets and second-hand stores.

Did you know that the sale of some items can be illegal under the Hazardous Products Act? This applies even to second-hand products.

Did you know that by selling an item that poses a hazard, you could be liable in a civil court of law?

To help vendors and buyers know what to look for and to ensure that products are safe and used safely, Health Canada is issuing its annual bulletin on the safety of items sold at garage sales.

The bulletin covers products commonly sold at garage sales and provides useful information to vendors and potential buyers. For example, it tells you that it is illegal to sell a crib made before 1986 and that these cribs should be destroyed. It is also illegal to sell lawn darts with elongated tips. The bulletin also covers items like children's sleepwear, car seats, baby gates, playpens, strollers and sports equipment.

Of special note, as of April 7, 2004, it became illegal to sell baby walkers in Canada -- either new or used. Additionally, anyone with a baby walker is advised to destroy it before discarding it so that it cannot be reused.

For more information on the safety of second-hand consumer products, please visit our web site at: www.healthcanada.ca/garagesales or contact the nearest Health Canada Product Safety Regional Office listed below: