Expert advice: How to ensure your family's Christmas safety
Shops across the country are already filled with holiday decorations, toys, and light installations, signaling that preparations for Christmas are in full swing. However, Consumer Protection specialists warn that safety must be the primary concern, outweighing aesthetic appeal.
In an interview on Moldovan national radio, Tatiana Frunze, an official with the country’s main Consumer Protection agency, stressed that all products intended for the winter holidays should be purchased only from authorized places. These guidelines are critical for maximizing Christmas safety.
Verifying the Purchase and Origin
The agency urges consumers to always request the fiscal receipt or warranty certificate. This documentation is essential as it confirms the product's legal origin and quality. Furthermore, all products must be accompanied by instructions for use in the local official language (Romanian), a key legal standard.
For online purchases, consumers must verify the seller's legal status, visible contact details, and inspect the delivery thoroughly. Only sign the receiving documents after confirming the product is intact and exactly matches the order.
Avoiding Fire Risks from Light Installations
Light installations are a particular area of concern, as they pose a serious fire risk if not chosen correctly. Frunze highlighted a few essential criteria: the product must be well-labeled, carry the recognized CE mark, and, preferably, use LED lights. LEDs are significantly safer because they do not heat up, drastically reducing the danger of fire.
Cables also require careful inspection; they must not be damaged, fragile, or frayed. Decorations themselves should be robust, particularly in homes with children or pets. A crucial safety standard is the mandated distance: the cable must run a minimum of one and a half meters from the socket to the first light/bulb.
Choosing a Safe Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree itself requires careful selection. For a natural tree, freshness is paramount: the needles must be green, elastic, and should not shed excessively when shaken gently.
For artificial Christmas tree safety, look for materials designed to burn slowly. Avoid inferior-quality polymer materials. Frunze warned that a cheap artificial tree can release harmful toxic chemicals when exposed to light and heat. Always follow the manufacturer's placement instructions and never position the tree near heat sources.
Finally, if a purchased product fails to meet the required safety standards or quality, the agency encourages consumers to immediately file a written complaint. This action is essential to prevent similar hazards for other citizens.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
