Product recalls help to protect consumers from dangerous or defective items. However, staying informed about them can sometimes feel overwhelming. Despite this reality, it’s important not to ignore the task of “keeping up with” recall-related news on a regular basis. Even as a busy person, once you know how to stay informed, keeping up with relevant information won’t take much time.
Whether information concerns the recall of a car, household appliance or food product, knowing how to stay updated your safety and the well-being of your family. Fortunately, following these three easy steps can help you stay informed and take action when necessary.
Step one: Sign up for government recall alerts
The best way to stay on top of recalls is to sign up for official recall alerts. In the United States, the federal government provides resources to keep consumers informed. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) all offer free email alerts for recalls. By subscribing to these alerts, you’ll receive notifications as soon as a recall is issued.
Step two: Register your products
When you purchase a product, especially a vehicle or a major household appliance, take the time to register it with the manufacturer. By registering, you’ll better ensure that the manufacturer can directly notify you if there is a recall concerning that product.
Step three: Check recall websites regularly
In addition to receiving alerts, you can actively check recall information on official websites. Websites such as www.recalls.gov, the FDA’s website and the NHTSA’s recall search tool allow consumers to search for specific products and check for any active recalls related to them. These resources will allow you to verify whether products you already own, or those you’re considering purchasing, have been recalled for safety issues.
Staying informed about product recalls does take a little time and effort. However, keeping yourself and your loved ones safe is worth this investment of your time and energy.