It is important to plan purchases and prioritise the quality and safety of products
With the arrival of the Three Wise Men, the Directorate General for Healthcare Services, Pharmacy and Consumer Affairs is calling for responsible shopping, promoting decisions that favour the sustainability and safety of the products purchased.
- Plan your purchases. It is advisable to buy without excess, to diversify and to act responsibly. It is advisable to make a list of gifts in advance to avoid impulse purchases that can unbalance the family budget. Planning is key to ensuring that choices are conscious and appropriate to the needs and wishes of each recipient.
- Prioritise product quality and safety. It is essential to check that products, especially toys, have the CE mark, which guarantees their compliance with European safety regulations. Also, check labels to ensure that materials are safe and suitable for the age of the child.
- Support local and sustainable trade. Opting for local businesses not only boosts the local economy but also helps to reduce the ecological footprint. It is also highly recommended to choose products manufactured sustainably, as it is a gesture of responsibility towards the environment.
- Avoid over-indebtedness. Families are encouraged to adjust their purchases to the available budget. While gifts are an important part of the holiday season, it is essential to remember that the values of sharing and enjoying family time are the true spirit of the holiday season.
- Keep and ask for your receipt. In case of returns or complaints, it is essential to have proof of purchase. Also, find out about the return policies of each establishment.
- Buying toys. Choose educational games: they encourage children’s creativity and participation. Don’t forget that play is a form of learning and should be used to entertain according to their age and maturity. Remember that what is important is not the price of a toy but the opportunities it offers to create, imagine, manipulate…
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The Directorate General for Benefits, Pharmacy and Consumer Affairs offers a series of recommendations for the Three Wise Men’s shopping spree
If the toy is electric, it shall specify the maximum power, the supply voltage it needs and its energy consumption. The electrical voltage should not exceed 24 volts.
Check for small detachable parts, parts that can puncture or cut, or openings where a child can insert fingers or hands and cannot remove them.
- Buying video games. Video games are a popular gift, especially among children and teenagers. To ensure a proper purchase, consider the following recommendations:
Check the age rating (PEGI): Make sure the video game is appropriate for the age of the recipient. This rating indicates the content and the recommended age.
Learn about the content: Beyond the age rating, research the subject matter and mechanics of the game to make sure it aligns with the values you want to convey.
Set clear limits: Consider talking to children and adolescents about usage time and encourage a balance between play time and other activities.
Buy original products: Buying video games from legal retailers not only ensures quality but also avoids potential safety or performance issues.
Set clear limits: Consider talking to children and teenagers about usage time and encourage a balance between game time and other activities.
Buy original products: Buying video games from legal retailers not only ensures quality but also avoids potential safety or operational problems.
Look for logos and pictograms: They will guide you by showing the recommended age of the video game.
- Online shopping. E-commerce is an increasingly popular option, especially at this time of year. To avoid inconveniences, bear in mind the following recommendations:
Buy on trusted websites: Make sure that the page has security measures such as HTTPS protocol and check reviews from other users.
Check return and warranty policies: It is important to know the conditions in case the product does not meet your expectations or has a defect.
Avoid too-good-to-be-true offers: These could be indicative of counterfeit products or scams.
Protect your personal data: Provide only the necessary information and use secure payment methods, such as virtual cards or recognised platforms.
- Exchanges and complaints. The shop is not obliged to exchange a product that is in perfect condition, unless it is advertised as such. It is advisable to ask the trader about the possibility of exchanging the product and the conditions under which the exchange can be made.
In the event of a problem with the product, a complaint should be made to the company that sold it.
Commercial establishments must have official complaint forms.
It is a guarantee to contract with a company that is a member of the Consumer Arbitration System, which are identified with the membership mark.
The Directorate General for Services, Pharmacy and Consumer Affairs reiterates its commitment to protecting the rights of consumers and thanks the public for their cooperation in encouraging more conscious and responsible shopping.
For further information or queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Directorate General via the official website or the consumer helpline.
Offices of the Directorate General for Benefits, Pharmacy and Consumer Affairs. Compulsory appointment system.
- Palma: 971 17 79 79
- Maó: 971 17 73 33
- Eivissa: 971 17 70 67
- Social networks: @IBConsum
- Free consumer helpline: 900 16 60 60 00
- Online complaint: reclamacionsconsum.caib.es