How can I see if a product I own is unsafe?

You expect the things you buy to be safe when you and your family use them. However, this is not always the case. Whether an item in your home was defective before you bought it or it became unsafe after repeated use, it is important for you and other Connecticut residents to know how to check for product hazards.

As you may be aware, some devices wear out over time and can be dangerous if you continue using them. For example, your hair dryer may electrocute you or catch on fire if the cord becomes damaged. Common sense dictates that you frequently inspect the products in your home for signs of dangerous wear and tear.

However, some products may be dangerous as soon as you carry them through your front door. The salad you just bought for dinner may be contaminated with bacteria that can make your family sick, or the popular toy you bought your son for his birthday could have a design defect that causes a part to break off easily and create a choking hazard. You can check online for information on product recalls and incidents that have harmed consumers by going to Recalls.gov. This website compiles recalls and incident reports from numerous agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

You may protect yourself and your family by staying on top of safety tips and current recalls. Since an injury involving a harmful product can be complicated, this information should not replace the advice of a lawyer.