Consumeradvice

Safety

I’m considering purchasing an electric blanket as a way of keeping warm at home without putting the heating on but struggling to get a reasonably priced one from bigger retailers. I’ve seen cheap copycat ones online but have had problems in the past. What would you recommend?

The cost of energy has increased significantly, and with most of us facing hikes in bills, many are looking at ways of keeping costs down and alternative ways to keep warm in our homes. Many agencies are encouraging people to ‘heat the person’ as opposed to the whole house. This advice appears to work for …

I’m considering purchasing an electric blanket as a way of keeping warm at home without putting the heating on but struggling to get a reasonably priced one from bigger retailers. I’ve seen cheap copycat ones online but have had problems in the past. What would you recommend? Read More »

Staying Warm, Staying Safe, Staying Ahead – Energy23 Campaign

Advice Direct Scotland’s ‘Energy 23’ campaign runs from the 23rd to the 29th of January 2023, encouraging Scottish consumers to stay safe during the remaining winter months. We have joined forces with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) to offer guidance to households struggling …

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Black Friday & Cyber Monday 2022 – Avoiding Regretful Bargains and Dangerous Products

Hot off the heels of National Consumer Week Scotland 2022 last week, Advice Direct Scotland are asking Scottish consumers to wear their ‘savvy shopper’ badges pride of place for a bit longer – to help avoid being caught out by counterfeit cosmetics and problematic products in the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. This year, …

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Remember, Remember the 5th of November – For the Right Reasons!

With fireworks night 2022 almost upon us, and some additional changes to legislation coming into force, it’s more important than ever that we put safety first, and consider other people, and our furry friends before lighting that bonfire. I don’t know if it’s just me – but with every passing year, the period around Guy …

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Halloween 2022 – Avoiding a Safety Horror Story this Halloween

Growing up, Halloween was always a well-thought-out occasion for us, with myself and my two younger siblings taking time to describe what we wanted to dress up as, and my mum and aunt making or purchasing items to make our vision a reality. From the time I dressed up as Dracula, with a bin bag …

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I recently purchased soft toys for my granddaughter from a local independent store. The fur is falling out of the three items purchased, and I worry that it is not safe for a toddler to play with. I have tried to return the items, but the shop owner says I can’t. Can you help?

When you purchase from a trader, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that they should be of satisfactory quality. This means that there should be no faults or damage and the goods should be durable. The goods should also be the same as any sample or model that you were shown, match the seller’s description …

I recently purchased soft toys for my granddaughter from a local independent store. The fur is falling out of the three items purchased, and I worry that it is not safe for a toddler to play with. I have tried to return the items, but the shop owner says I can’t. Can you help? Read More »

Keeping Safe this Bonfire Night

This year, there have been several changes to the laws around the use and supply of fireworks in Scotland. With these alterations to the rules, how can we ensure we keep ourselves and our loved ones safe when choosing to hold private fireworks displays and bonfires in our back gardens? According to the publication ‘Scottish …

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Counterfeit Cosmetics – Keeping this Halloween as Scare-Free as Possible

  As consumers, the access we have to makeup and tips from beauty experts on how to apply it is growing every day. You only have to go onto YouTube, Instagram or any other social media platform to see the reach that beauty influencers have, and the brand engagement that endorsed products can have. At …

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Pumpkins: The Fruit, The Whole Fruit, and Nothing but the Fruit (Well it’s also a Legume Actually)

Pumpkins have become a staple symbol of Halloween in Western society. According to finder.com, in 2021, Brits will spend a massive £25.1 million on pumpkins. Although this seems like a exorbitant amount, it is estimated that this is still 15% less than in 2020, when over £29 million was spent. Jack-o’-lanterns, and decorative pumpkins can …

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