CPSC launches “Resale Round-up” campaign

Yesterday the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the Top Ten list of recalled children’s products as part of its “Resale Roundup” campaign. CPSC is partnering with the National Association of Resale & Thrift Shops (NARTS), the Salvation Army, and state agencies to increase outreach to resale stores. Chairman Inez Tenenbaum warns that the resale of recalled products is a violation of federal law and puts children’s lives at risk. CPSC’s 1999 study found that nearly 70% of resale stores sold at least one recalled or hazardous product. Aside from a recall, secondhand products pose special hazards due to wear and tear from previous use and failure to meet current safety standards and the 2008 Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).

To keep dangerous products off the market, re-sellers should check their product inventory against CPSC’s recall listings and read KID’s Guidelines for Secondhand Sellers. For comprehensive updates, sign up for CPSC’s Email Announcements listing all recalls and KID’s monthly Email Alerts listing all child product recalls and product safety news. Dangerous products also tend to turn up at summer yard sales. If you are buying or selling items at a yard sale, refer to CPSC’s handbook and KID’s safety tips.