These days it's time to talk about Halloween, but above all it's time to talk about security during this celebration which turns the dark afternoon of October 31 into a dance of color and joy in the streets. Last year we commented that any item (from costumes to glue teeth, through red liquid simulating blood) aimed at children under 14, is considered a toy, and as such the corresponding legislation applies.
It's very important verify CE labeling, that there are warnings of use, and a series of aspects that are detailed in this post. It is so important that we cannot ignore the recommendations even if children insist on buying items without guarantees of use. It happened to me a year ago with the older child, and I am glad that I insisted and maintained, because it is also important that they learn about consumption.
Now the Confederation of Consumers and Users indicates some of the irregularities they have found in various shops in Valencia and Madrid
In the market there are products that they could be out of legislation, and could even put the health of consumers at risk, especially if it's children. It is therefore appropriate that we look closely during the time of purchase, and that we do not neglect thinking that “total will only be used for a few hours”, since (for example) a hat with sharp parts, can cause head injuries.
Attention to possible irregularities
- Absence of incomplete or incorrect labeling or labeling in costumes, masks, wigs, makeup, etc.
- Sale of decorative contact lenses without proper supervision of qualified personnel. In addition, they had incorrect labeling.
- In masks, absence of ventilation holes in mouth and nose.
- Presence of laces in the neck area with a length greater than allowed, both in costumes and in layers.
- In hats, presence of sharp parts.
- Arrows with suction cups that detach easily and can be ingested.
CECU recommendations for the purchase of costumes and accessories
- Costume labeling must include product name and brand, identification data of the manufacturer, importer or distributor, instructions and warnings of use and the CE marking.
In addition, to avoid the risk of strangulation, the rule prohibits the use of cords or ropes in the neck area in costumes for children under seven years of age and that are longer than 7.5 centimeters for those over that age.
It is also important to verify that The costume is made with non-flammable materials. Adult costumes must include full and Spanish labeling in accordance with the regulations of textile garments.
When buying a mask, it is essential to check that the holes (eyes, nose and mouth) have openings of a suitable size to avoid risks of suffocation. We must also verify that they include a complete label and in Spanish and that both wigs and masks are made with non-flammable materials.
The labeling of makeup (especially if it is to be used by children) should include the components or ingredients of the cosmetic, in order to avoid possible allergies, and, in Spanish, the precautions and instructions for use.
As for the decorative lenses (without corrective purpose) they must be sold in establishments that have qualified professionals and verify that they include adequate labeling in our language
- Extreme precautions should be taken in accessories for children (bows with arrows, guns, hats, headbands ...), checking that they don't have sharp parts or small parts that can be easily detached and swallowed.
Finally, the importance of compare prices in different establishments and acquire those that meet and meet all security and labeling conditions. You also have to save the purchase ticket or invoice to claim if a problem appears.
For my part, tell you that all this is easier if we buy a little in advance, because we will have time to read labels, compare and decide. And yes they can accompany children, provided they are clear in advance that you demand these products, and consequently what you are NOT going to buy.
Images | Steven Depolo, USAG- Humphreys
More information | CECU
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