Buying toys and gadgets
Christmas shopping can mean toys, dressing-up outfits, games, phones, electrical gadgets and all sorts of tempting online bargains. But a cheap deal is not a bargain if the product is unsafe, fake or unsuitable for the person you are buying it for.
Before you buy, take a few minutes to check what you are actually getting and who you are buying it from.
Buying toys for children
- Check that the toy is suitable for the child’s age and follow any age restrictions or safety warnings.
- Look for the appropriate UKCA or CE safety marking and check that the product comes with clear safety information.
- Be particularly cautious about very cheap, unbranded toys or products from sellers you do not recognise.
- Check toys for small parts, magnets, button batteries or other components that could present a risk to younger children.
- Buy from a retailer or seller you trust and be wary if the price looks too good to be true.
Dressing-up costumes
A superhero, princess or character costume can make a brilliant present, but remember that children’s dressing-up clothes can present a fire risk.
Check the label and any flammability warnings before buying, and keep costumes and other loose clothing well away from candles, open fires and other sources of heat.
For more advice about reducing fire risks around your home, visit our protect your home from fires resources.
Electrical gifts, chargers and gadgets
New phones, tablets, gaming devices and electrical gadgets often mean more chargers, cables and plugs around the house too.
- Be cautious about buying electrical products and chargers from unknown or unofficial sellers.
- Check the product, plug and charger for damage before use.
- Use the correct charger for the device.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not overload sockets or extension leads.
Find more advice about sockets, extension cables, faulty wiring, household appliances and electrical safety in our fire safety resources.
Shopping online? Stop and check before you pay
Christmas is a busy time for online shopping, so do not let the rush for a bargain make you drop your guard.
Pause before clicking links or handing over payment or personal information, particularly if a deal looks suspicious or too good to be true.
Our stay safe online resources include advice on spotting scams and fraud, protecting your devices and data, using social media safely and what to do if you are scammed.
Do not advertise your Christmas presents to thieves
Once the presents are opened, think about what the packaging outside your home might be telling other people. Boxes from expensive televisions, gaming consoles, computers and other technology can advertise exactly what is inside your home.
Break down packaging, place it inside your recycling container where possible and avoid leaving expensive items visible through windows.
If Christmas means new technology, bikes or other valuables in your home, it is also a good time to review your home security.
Our protect your home from theft resources cover locks, security lighting, CCTV, alarm systems, safes, property registration and marking, and protecting sheds and tools.
A safer Christmas starts before you buy
Buy from sellers you trust, check what you are buying, read the safety information and do not let a Christmas bargain become an expensive mistake.
