Injuries from the use of consumer products are common, frequently serious, and sometimes fatal, and there appears to be a disconnection between product safety realities and consumer expectations.

Most Canadians believe that if a product is available for sale on the market, it is safe or has been tested for safety. This is not necessarily the case in Canada, particularly for children’s products. Under the current Hazardous Product Act there are a variety of consumer products, including many children’s products, which do not have any standards or regulations. The result is an increasing risk of product-related injuries to children and youth due to age, cognitive abilities, and developmental stage.

There is a need to renew and modernize Canadian federal product safety legislation. To address this growing need, Safe Kids Canada’s national public awareness campaign, Safe Kids Week, held 25–31 May 2009, will focus on home product safety. Find out how to show your support for the renewal of consumer product safety legislation in Canada by visiting www.safekidscanada.ca [9] and clicking on the Safe Kids Week link, or call 888 SAFE-TIP.