Teresa today welcomed research by the charity Electrical Safety First which raises awareness of the dangers of counterfeit electrical goods.
Research by leading safety charity Electrical Safety First found that 1 in 6 consumers in the UK have bought a fake electrical item as a Christmas gift – and most of us are unable to identify a genuine electrical product from a fake.
Speaking at the launch of the research, Teresa said:
“Christmas is always expensive, and we are all keen to get a bargain. But Electrical Safety First’s research makes clear that there are real dangers to fake electrical goods.
“I was shocked to find out that 3 out of 5 fake electrical goods are purchased online and a third of buyers experience a major problem with the item. Almost half of all domestic fires in the UK are caused by electricity.
“Fake goods are often cheaper because they omit key components which can affect the safety and the functionality of the product. If unsure of whether the product you are buying is a fake or not, I would urge you to use Electrical Safety First’s online advice – it could be the difference between a Happy Christmas and not!”
Electrical Safety First has developed advice to help people spot a fake electrical product.
Visit www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guides-and-advice/electrical-items/safe-shopping/ to find out more.
