The Internal Revenue Service today announced the opening of a special telephone line for taxpayers affected by the Gulf oil spill. Individuals who have questions about the BP payments or who are experiencing filing or payment hardships because of the oil spill should contact the IRS at 866-562-5227. The special services phone line will operate weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time. In certain cases, the IRS can assist oil spill victims by suspending collection and examination actions. Taxpayers who need this assistance must request it. Others may decide to continue making payments because interest will continue to accrue on outstanding balances, even if some penalties are abated. Read more...
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Scroll through Craigslist in cities along the Florida's Panhandle and in Alabama, and dozens of ads appear with offers for expensive training guaranteed to net jobs cleaning up oil. Just as the earthquake in Haiti, Hurricane Katrina and other natural disasters prompted an outpouring of financial help, people looking for a quick profit have surfaced since oil began gushing after the Deepwater Horizon incident in April, preying on people who are unemployed, looking to make fast cash in the stock market or donate to the needy. Read more...
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Burglars who break into your home this summer may be after more than your jewelry and electronic equipment - they may also steal your identity. As you prepare to leave on vacation, it is important to protect yourself against both a physical and a virtual break-in. Read more...
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USDA is reminding consumers that following safe food handling steps are the key to making your cookout safe and healthy for your guests and has four basic steps to help you Be Food Safe and declare independence from foodborne illness any time of year. Read more...
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The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), with the cooperation of seven firms, announced voluntary recalls of more than two million cribs to address drop-side hazards and other hazards that affect the safety of young children. The recalling firms are providing consumers with free repair kits to immobilize the drop sides or other remedies. Do not attempt to fix these cribs with homemade remedies.
The drop-side and fixed-side crib recalls announced today are of units manufactured between 2000 and 2009 Read more...
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The recalled entertainment centers' shelves can detach and fall onto consumers when the entertainment centers are moved. The recalled entertainment centers with model names "Arts and Crafts", "Vineyard Manor", "Lake Cottage", "Studio One", "West Indies" and "Plantation Cove" were sold in various colors including dark brown, natural, black and white with fixed or adjustable shelves. Read more...
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The Kroger Co. said today it is recalling select containers of Kroger Deluxe Chocolate Paradise Ice Cream sold in 17 states because it may contain tree nuts not listed on the label. Customers should return the product to stores for a full refund or replacement. The product was sold in Kroger stores in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. Read more...
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McNeil Consumer Healthcare, Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc., is recalling five product lots as an addition to the list of products included in the company’s January 15th, 2010 product recall. The additional lots involved are four product lots of BENADRYL® ALLERGY ULTRATAB™ TABLETS, 100 count, sold in the U.S.; and one product lot of EXTRA STRENGTH TYLENOL® Rapid Release Gels, 50 count sold in the U.S., Trinidad and Tobago, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico (FULL RECALLED PRODUCT LIST BELOW). This recall is a follow-up to the product recall that McNeil Consumer Healthcare announced on January 15th, 2010 and is being taken because the products were inadvertently omitted from the initial recall action. Read more...
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In the wake of any disaster, many reach for their checkbooks and donate money to aid and rescue organizations. The Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance cautions, however, that the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is unlike previous disasters and offers specific advice to potential donors and volunteers. Read more...
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U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today proposed new consumer protections for air travelers, building on the Department of Transportation’s recent rule banning carriers from subjecting passengers to long tarmac delays and other deceptive practices. "Airline passengers have rights and should be able to expect fair and reasonable treatment when they fly," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. "With this rulemaking, we’re proposing to strengthen the consumer protections enacted last month and raise the bar for airlines when it comes to treating passengers fairly." Read more...
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Memorial Day weekend marks the start of road trip season, when families all across the nation pack up their cars, trucks and SUVs and take off for destinations across the country. Why do they drive? To save money on airfare, airport parking and the stress of air travel, instead packing multiple family members into one over- cramped vehicle. But with gas prices reaching an average of nearly 60 cents more than this time last year, do the savings really add up? At the current national average of $2.86 per gallon of regular gasoline, budget-conscious consumers will want to take steps to avoid filling up more often than necessary. So whether you’re traveling to the Rocky Mountains or to the grocery store for some Rocky Road, heed these efficient driving tips to avoid that old seasonal affliction - pain at the pump. Read more...
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An electrical failure in the dishwasher’s heating element can pose a serious fire hazard. The recall includes Maytag®, Amana®, Jenn-Air®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley® brand dishwashers with plastic tubs and certain serial numbers. The affected dishwashers were manufactured with black, bisque, white, silver and stainless steel front panels. The brand name is printed on the front of the dishwasher. The model and serial numbers are printed on a label located inside the plastic tub on a tag near the left side of the door opening. Read more...
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The recalled lithium-ion batteries can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers. The recalled lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are used with various model series of HP and Compaq notebook computers. The chart below includes all notebook model numbers associated with batteries recalled to date. The computer model number is located at the top of the service label on the bottom of the notebook computer. Not all batteries matching the bar codes are being recalled. Read more...
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The coffee maker can overheat, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers. This recall involves General Electric®-brand 12-cup coffee makers sold in white or black. The digital coffee maker has programmable functions and plastic housing. The GE logo is printed on the base of the coffee maker and the model number is printed on the bottom of the base. Read more...
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A little prep will help you hold off on paying extra charges and fees. Read on to her about what your credit card covers, if it gets complicated overseas, gas up on your own, and much more. Read more...
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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Family Dollar Stores Inc., of Charlotte, N.C., is announcing the voluntary recall of 1.8 million toy dart gun sets, due to an aspiration hazard. If a child places the soft, pliable plastic toy dart in his/her mouth, the toy can be inhaled into the throat and prevent the child from breathing. The toy dart guns, imported by Henry Gordy International Inc., of Plainfield, N.J., were sold exclusively at Family Dollar stores. Family Dollar is working cooperatively with CPSC to announce this recall because Henry Gordy International has refused to recall the toy dart gun sets. The "Auto Fire" toy target set is sold with either an orange and yellow toy gun (item #P238) or a blue and yellow toy gun (item #9328), eight orange darts and a small target with numbers from 1 to 20. The gun's item number is located on one side of the handle in raised lettering. The soft plastic darts measure just over one inch in length and have a small suction cup at one end with a diameter of about ½ inch. The target board is black, yellow, red and green, and measures five inches in diameter. "Gordy Toy" for "Ages 8+" is printed on the packaging. Read more...
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A pin attaching to the yellow knob on the handle of the buggy can loosen, causing the handle to detach from the buggy. This poses a serious risk of injury to young children. The Step2® Push Around Buggy™ and Whisper Ride Buggy™ are ride-on toys. The buggy comes in various colors; such as, orange, red, blue, pink and green. The buggies have a red "Step2" logo on the handle of the buggy. Read more...
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Many people have had their Facebook account broken into by criminals, according to our latest report on consumer experiences on social networks. How do criminals break into a Facebook account? One way is to guess your password, so it’s important to always use a strong one that’s at least eight characters long, and includes numbers, symbols, and upper- and lower-case letters. Read more...
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Even the savviest of travelers can always use a refresher course in travel booking, especially in light of travel's new realities, fees aplenty, confusing regulations, and endless fine print. Read on to see the 10 most common travel booking mistakes, and how to avoid them. Read more...
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McNeil Consumer Healthcare is implementing a voluntary recall of infant and children’s liquid products due to manufacturing deficiencies which may affect quality, purity or potency. Following McNeil’s recall announcement on Friday evening, the FDA is providing additional advice to consumers.The products include certain liquid infant’s and children’s Tylenol®, Motrin®, Zyrtec®, and Benadryl® products. Read more...
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It just got harder for a TV to earn the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star. Starting May 1, 2010, TVs that carry the government’s Energy Star label are, on average, 40 percent more efficient than conventional models. Available in stores nationwide, the new TVs will help consumers save even more energy and money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and still deliver all the features and performance quality they expect. Read more...
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The water bottle spouts can break or crack, posing a choking hazard to children and adults. The Sport Cap 2.0 water bottle spouts are made of black plastic and have an attachment loop. "Klean Kanteen" is stamped into the side of the cap. The water bottle spouts were sold at outdoor sports stores, including LLBean, and grocery and specialty stores nationwide, and on the Web at www.llbean.com from April 2009 through April 2010 for $5 for the spout and between $15 and $28 when sold with a stainless steel water bottle. Read more...
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Air travelers must no longer be subjected to lengthy tarmac delays on domestic flights and will enjoy additional consumer protections as a result of a new rule. Under the new rule, U.S. airlines operating domestic flights may not permit an aircraft to remain on the tarmac at large and medium hub airports for more than three hours without deplaning passengers, with exceptions allowed only for safety or security reasons or if air traffic control advises the pilot in command that returning to the terminal would disrupt airport operations. U.S. carriers operating international flights departing from or arriving in the United States must specify, in advance, their own time limits for deplaning passengers, with the same exceptions applicable. Carriers are required to provide adequate food and potable drinking water for passengers within two hours of the aircraft being delayed on the tarmac and to maintain operable lavatories and, if necessary, provide medical attention. Read more...
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MY-A & CO. of Cheverly, MD is recalling its 3.5oz jars of Ground Black Pepper Double Golden Fish because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. The product comes in a 3.5oz plastic jar with no product codes on the jars. The recalled products were distributed in retail stores in 11 states, (GA, TX, IL, MD, VA, NC, OH, NY, MA, ME, FL). Read more...
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It takes $25 per car before visitors driving into Grand Canyon National Park can enjoy its spectacular beauty, but the price of admission is going away -- for just a little while. The National Park Service is waiving entrance fees at all of its 392 parks for a week starting Saturday as part of its annual National Park Week celebration. Read more...
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April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month - and the American Red Cross reminds you to keep your family pet safe and healthy as we head into spring and summer. As the weather gets warmer, certain dangers for pets become more prevalent. Read more...
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What can you do if someone has posted a photo of you on Facebook that you don’t like? These questions, among others, are addressed in Facebook’s newly redesigned Safety Center aimed at parents, educators, law enforcement officials and teens. Read more...
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H-E-B, committed to the safety of customers, is issuing a precautionary recall for H-E-B French Onion Dip. H-E-B is expanding the recall announced Thursday. In addition to the product with code dates of 4/15/2010 and 4/20/2010, new affected code dates are 4/23/2010 and 4/24/2010 in the 8 ounce, 16 ounce and 24 ounce sizes. The product is being recalled due to possible salmonella contamination. Only the French Onion flavor is impacted by this recall. Customers who purchased the affected product can return the product to the store for a full refund. No illnesses have been reported. Read more...
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Even before the iPad was released to the public, scammers were busy devising ways to take advantage of early adopters. Better Business Bureau warns eager shoppers to stay away from offers to become a "tester" just to get a free iPad. Read more...
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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is encouraging citizens to recycle their cell phones during the second annual National Cell Phone Recycling Week, April 5 - 11, 2010. This joint effort with the EPA’s Plug-In To eCycling program and leading cell phone manufacturers, retailers, and wireless service providers will increase awareness about the importance of cell phone recycling to save energy and conserve natural resources. Read more...
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Complaints to Better Business Bureau about airlines have increased by more than 170 percent in the last five years. Good news is on the horizon, as BBB explains, new rules and regulations go into effect this month to provide better consumer protection for air travelers. Read more...
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With the increasing popularity and convenience of mobile-banking apps comes the risk of downloading and installing a fraudulent application that could steal your account information and, potentially, any other data stored on your mobile device. In other words, the next generation of phishing scams is about to explode, and it has the potential to do much more damage than earlier versions. Even more worrisome, fraudulent apps may be more difficult to spot than were the fake Web sites used by phishing scammers. An unusual Web address, or URL, could easily flag a Web site as fake, but that's not the case with smart-phone applications. And the Read more...
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Mailbox-filling handbills proliferate in the spring, promising low-ball prices to clean your carpets, air ducts and chimney. But will the people who send them deliver a bona fide spruce-up, or is their real intention to clean you out? Read more...
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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Health Canada (HC), in cooperation with Infantino LLC, of San Diego, Calif. are announcing a free replacement program for the Infantino "SlingRider" and "Wendy Bellissimo" infant slings. One million of these infant slings are being recalled in the United States and 15,000 are being recalled in Canada. CPSC advises consumers to immediately stop using these slings for infants younger than four months of age due to a risk of suffocation and contact Infantino for a free replacement product. The Infantino "SlingRider," is a soft fabric baby carrier with a padded shoulder strap that is worn by parents and caregivers to carry an infant weighing up to 20 lbs. "Infantino" is printed on the plastic slider located on the strap. "Infantino," "SlingRider" and the item number are printed on the instruction/warning label inside the baby sling carrier. "Wendy Bellissimo" branded sling carriers were sold exclusively at Babies "R" Us and have a sewn-in label on the inside of the sling strap that says in part "Wendy Bellissimo Media, Inc." and lists Item numbers 3937500H7 and 3937501H7. Infantino LLC sold the slings in the United States and Canada from January 2003 through March 2010 at Walmart, Burlington Coat Factory, Target, Babies "R" Us, BJ’s Wholesale, various baby and children’s stores and other retailers nationwide, and on the Web at Amazon.com, for between $25 and $30. Read more...
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The Internal Revenue Service issued its 2010 "dirty dozen" list of tax scams, including schemes involving return preparer fraud, hiding income offshore and phishing. "Taxpayers should be wary of anyone peddling scams that seem too good to be true," IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman said. "The IRS fights fraud by pursuing taxpayers who hide income abroad and by ensuring taxpayers get competent, ethical service from qualified professionals at home in the U.S." Read more...
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The 2010 U.S. Census survey will be mailed to all U.S. residents in mid-March, opening the door to con artists who will use the program as an opportunity to swindle people out of their money and their identity. The Census questionnaire asks 10 questions, none involving personal financial information such as bank account or credit card numbers or your Social Security number. There have already been reports in parts of the country where people are being asked for financially sensitive information by people pretending to be census takers. Read more...
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Having flood insurance will be increasingly important this year as spring rain combines in many parts of the U.S. with the melting of record snowfall. Read more...
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The nailers could have a faulty feeder that can allow nails to be ejected sideways, posing a serious injury hazard to the user or bystanders. The coil nailers are used to project nails into drywall, wood or other materials. The model number is NV83A2 and can be found on the body of the product. Only those units manufactured between October 2002 and September 2005 are included in this recall. The manufacturing date can be identified by the serial number engraved at the end of the handle, the first digit representing the month (1 for January, 2 for February, 3 for March, 4 for April, 5 for May, 6 for June, 7 for July, 8 for August, 9 for September, O for October, N for November and D for December) and the second digit representing the year (2 for 2002, 3 for 2003, 4 for 2004 and 5 for 2005). Read more...
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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is advising parents and caregivers to be cautious when using infant slings for babies younger than four months of age. Slings can pose two different types of suffocation hazards to babies. In the first few months of life, babies cannot control their heads because of weak neck muscles. The sling’s fabric can press against an infant’s nose and mouth, blocking the baby’s breathing and rapidly suffocating a baby within a minute or two. Additionally, where a sling keeps the infant in a curled position bending the chin toward the chest, the airways can be restricted, limiting the oxygen supply. The baby will not be able to cry for help and can slowly suffocate. Read more...
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This weekend, March 13 and 14, we will all be setting our clocks to Daylight Saving Time. The time change is a good reminder to check your smoke alarms. Read more...
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Daylight Savings Time in the United States starts on the second Sunday in March of each year and the Federal Emergency Management Agency encourages all Americans to use the change to daylight savings time to update emergency preparedness plans. For years, firefighters and safety professionals at every level have asked the public to change smoke alarm batteries throughout their homes, as they move their clocks ahead. According to FEMA Acting Regional Administrator Dennis Hunsinger, the March ritual of making homes safer from fire is also a great opportunity to review disaster response plans and restock disaster kits. Read more...
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Roll-up Blinds-Strangulations can occur if the lifting loops slide off the side of the blind and a child's neck becomes entangled on the free-standing loop or if a child places his/her neck between the lifting loop and the roll-up blind material.
Roman Shades-Strangulations can occur when a child places his/her neck between the exposed inner cord and the fabric on the backside of the blind or when a child pulls the cord out and wraps it around his/her neck.
This recall involves all Innovations and "At Home with Meijer" Roman shades and roll-up blinds. The Roman shades are made with fabric or bamboo and the Roll-up blinds with bamboo. A label reading "Innovation" or "At Home with Meijer" can be found under the headrail. Read more...
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T. Marzetti Company announced as a precautionary measure that it is voluntarily recalling certain production codes of T. Marzetti Veggie Dips, Oak Lake Chip Dips and Great Value Chip Dips because an ingredient used in the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. There have been no reports of illnesses associated with the identified products, and no other types, varieties of flavors of products are affected by this recall. Read more...
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The driver may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving. If power steering assist is lost, it would require greater driver effort at low vehicle speeds, increasing the risk of a crash. Read more...
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Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. announced that it would provide additional services for New York Toyota and Lexus customers who are affected by Toyota’s recent recalls. These services are available to Toyota and Lexus owners in New York affected by current recalls involving sticking accelerator pedals, floor mat pedal entrapment, anti-lock brake system software updates, and Tacoma front drive shaft inspection. These services are provided for customers concerned about driving their vehicle before the repair is completed. Read more...
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The handle on the tea kettle can come loose, posing a burn hazard to the consumer. This recall involves Copco and Wild Leaf Tea Co. Bristol model and Martha Stewart Collection® Enameled Steel Tea Kettles with enamel finishes in white, crème, blue, cobalt, sand, red and green. Read more...
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received five reports of serious medication errors involving consumers who used Maalox Total Relief, the upset stomach reliever and anti-diarrheal medication, by mistake, when they had intended to use one of the traditional Maalox liquid antacid products. Read more...
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Note: This recall release is being reissued to expand the January 18 recall to include approximately 4.9 million additional pounds of beef and veal products, and to correct net weights from 40 lbs. to 50 lbs. in five instances in the earlier release.
Huntington Meat Packing Inc., a Montebello, Calif., establishment, is expanding its recall of January 18 to include approximately 4.9 million additional pounds of beef and veal products that were not produced in accordance with the company's food safety plan. The products are adulterated because the company made the products under insanitary conditions failing to take the steps it had determined were necessary to produce safe products Read more...
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Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc, announced it will conduct a voluntary safety recall to inspect the front drive shaft on a small production run of certain 2010 model year Tacoma 4WD trucks. The front shaft in approximately 8,000 vehicles may include a component that contains cracks that developed during the manufacturing process. As those vehicles are used, the cracks may eventually lead to the separation of the drive shaft at the joint portion. Read more...
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Trader Joe's Company of Monrovia, California is voluntarily recalling Trader Joe’s Chocolate Chip Chewy Coated Granola Bars because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.The product involved in this recall was distributed at Trader Joe’s stores nationally and comes in a 7.4 oz box marked with Use by/Lot Codes 16JUL10H2 and 17JUL10H1 on the top of the box and stamped individually on the side of each granola bar. Read more...
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Well-meaning senior citizens who think they are helping a grandchild in distress are becoming victims of another wave of the so-called "Grandparent Scam," warns Better Business Bureau. Read more...
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The popularity of social networking continues to grow among kids. Social networking sites can provide a secure way for kids to connect with each other, but they can also be exploited for any number of nefarious purposes. Better Business Bureau recommends parents take specific steps to keep their kids safe online. Read more...
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The children’s jackets have drawstrings through the hood which can pose a strangulation hazard to children. This recall involves children’s hooded nylon jackets in sizes XXS-XL (2T-16) and in various colors. "GTM Sportswear" is printed on a label sewn in the neck of the garments. Styles include Youth Medalist Jacket (YJA180), Youth Legacy Jacket (YJAPT01), Youth Eclipse Jacket (YLJA186), Youth Dominator Jacket (YJA3800), Youth Booster Jacket (YJA150), Youth Achiever Jacket (YJA161). Read more...
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Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) U.S.A., Inc., announced it will begin fixing accelerator pedals in recalled Toyota Division vehicles this week. Toyota’s engineers have developed and rigorously tested a solution that involves reinforcing the pedal assembly in a manner that eliminates the excess friction that has caused the pedals to stick in rare instances. Parts to reinforce the pedals are already being shipped for use by dealers, and dealer training is under way. Many Toyota dealers will work extended hours to complete the recall campaign as quickly and conveniently as possible, some even staying open 24 hours a day. The company has also taken the unprecedented action of stopping production of affected vehicles for the week of February 1. Read more...
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Toyota answers frequently asked questions about the sticking accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales. Toyota’s accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles: - 2009-2010 RAV4
- 2009-2010 Corolla
- 2009-2010 Matrix
- 2005-2010 Avalon
- Certain 2007-2010 Camry
No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions. Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and select Camry models, including all Camry hybrids, which will remain for sale. Read more...
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Daniele International Inc., an establishment with operations in Pascoag and Mapleville, R.I., is recalling approximately 1,240,000 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) varieties of Italian sausage products, including salami/salame, in commerce and potentially available to customers in retail locations because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. Read more...
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Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced that it is instructing Toyota dealers to temporarily suspend sales of eight models involved in the recall for sticking accelerator pedal, announced on January 21, 2010. Toyota announced it would recall approximately 2.3 million vehicles to correct sticking accelerator pedals on specific Toyota Division models. Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats. There is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Read more...
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Due to the manner in which the friction lever interacts with the sliding surface of the accelerator pedal inside the pedal sensor assembly, the sliding surface of the lever may become smooth during vehicle operation. The accelerator pedal may become hard to depress, slow to return to idle, or, in the worst case, mechanically stuck in a partially depressed position, increasing the risk of a crash. Read more...
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The hinges on the stroller’s canopy pose a fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to the child when the consumer is opening or closing the canopy. This recall involves Graco Passage™, Alano™ and Spree™ Strollers and Travel Systems Read more...
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As airlines keep hiking their checked-bag fees -- as Delta and Continental did recently -- there's more incentive than ever to schlep carry-on bags onto the plane with you. Go for it. Just don't be a jerk, follow a few simple etiquette rules, and everything should work out fine. Read more...
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The State Department Operations Center has set up the following number for Americans seeking information about U.S. citizen family members in Haiti: 1-888-407-4747 (due to heavy volume, some callers may receive a recording). Read more...
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An internal microphone wire under the palm rest can short circuit and overheat. This poses a potential burn hazard to consumers. The recalled notebook computer models are the Acer AS3410, AS3410T, AS3810T, AS3810TG, AS3810TZ and AS3810TZG. The computer’s screen size is about 13.3 inches measured diagonally. Not all units are affected. Consumers should contact Acer to determine if their unit is included in the recall. The computers were sold at ABS Computer Technologies, D&H Distributing, Fry’s Electronics, Ingram Micro, Radio Shack, SED/American Express, Synnex Corporation, SYX Distribution, Tech Data Corporation and other retailers nationwide and Amazon.com from June 2009 through October 2009 for between $650 and $1,150. Read more...
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The national unemployment rate is hovering around 10 percent, but the good news is that the upcoming 2010 Census will create hundreds of thousands of temporary, part-time jobs across the United States. Better Business Bureau offers the following advice on what it takes to work for the Census and tips on how to land a job. Read more...
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The Transportation Security Administration issued new security directives to all United States and international air carriers with inbound flights to the U.S. effective January 4, 2010. Because effective aviation security must begin beyond our borders, and as a result of extraordinary cooperation from our global aviation partners, TSA is mandating that every individual flying into the U.S. from anywhere in the world traveling from or through nations that are state sponsors of terrorism or other countries of interest will be required to go through enhanced screening. The directive also increases the use of enhanced screening technologies and mandates threat- based and random screening for passengers on U.S. bound international flights. Read more...
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The New Year is here and, because of the rough economy, it’s more important that ever to resolve to be a savvy consumer. Better Business Bureau offers the following ten New Year’s resolutions to fight scammers, prevent identity theft and save money in 2010. Read more...
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According to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®, 80 percent of consumers will purchase new electronics this holiday season. As some old electronics are removed from homes to make room for the new, CEA offers tips to help consumers and businesses safely and effectively dispose of unwanted electronics. Read more...
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New ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety take the guesswork out of selecting boosters most likely to provide good lap and shoulder belt fit in a range of vehicles. The Institute rates 9 belt- positioning boosters BEST BETS, and 6 are GOOD BETS out of 60 models examined in a new round of evaluations. Eleven boosters aren't recommended at all because they do such a poor job of fitting the belt. Fit is important because safety belts are designed with adults in mind, not kids. Boosters elevate children so belts will fit their small frames better to protect them in a crash. Read more...
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As families look for ways to save money in tough economic times, there is an increased risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings and fire deaths associated with the use of alternative heating and power sources. The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers to check all home heating systems from fireplaces to furnaces, including any back-up power systems. Read more...
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On Dec. 25, 2009, an individual on board Northwest Airlines Flight 253 set off a device and was subdued by passengers and crew. As a result of this incident, TSA has worked with airline and law enforcement authorities, as well as federal, state, local, and international partners to put additional security measures in place to ensure aviation security remains strong. Passengers traveling domestically and internationally to U.S. destinations may notice additional screening measures. Read more...
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One in four American teenagers say they have texted while driving, and almost half say they have been a passenger while a driver was texting behind the wheel. As a result insurers are now more convinced than ever that parents need to take responsibility for counseling their teens on safe driving and making sure they have the right type and amount of insurance. Read more...
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The side-to-side shifting or tilting of the hammock can cause the infant to roll and become entrapped or wedged against the hammock’s fabric and/or mattress pad, resulting in a suffocation hazard. The Amby Baby Motion Bed consists of a steel frame and a fabric hammock which are connected by a large spring and metal crossbar. There is only one model of the hammock available which can be identified by a label sewn onto the hammock stating: "Amby - Babies Love It, Naturally." Read more...
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Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) announced today details of the vehicle- based remedy to address the root cause of the potential risk for floor mat entrapment of accelerator pedals in certain Toyota and Lexus models. Toyota issued a consumer safety advisory on September 29 on this issue and has, as an interim measure, commenced the mailing of safety notices to certain Toyota and Lexus owners on October 30. The models involved are: 2007 to 2010 MY (model year) Camry, 2005 to 2010 MY Avalon, 2004 to 2009 MY Prius, 2005 to 2010 MY Tacoma, 2007 to 2010 MY Tundra, 2007 to 2010 MY ES350, 2006 to 2010 MY IS250, and 2006 to 2010 MY IS 350. Read more...
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The candle flame attached to the top of the cake toy can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children. This recall involves Evenflo ExerSaucer® 1-2-3 Tea for Me™ activity learning centers. The tea party themed toys have a two-tier cake that is light blue, dark pink and yellow. Models included in the recall are 6161834 and 6161920. The model numbers are printed on the packaging and on a label located on the underside of the base of the product. The recommended age for use of this product is 4 months to walking. Toys "R" Us and juvenile product stores nationwide from December 2007 through March 2009 for about $70. Read more...
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Net Cetera: Chatting with Kids About Being Online from the Federal Trade Commission tells parents and teachers what they need to know to talk to kids about issues like cyberbullying, sexting, mobile phone safety, and protecting the family computer. Talking to kids about these topics can help them avoid behaving rudely online; steer clear of inappropriate content like pornography, violence, or hate speech; and protect themselves from contact with bullies, predators, hackers, and scammers. Read more...
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The better prepared you are for the initial car test-drive encounter, the more beneficial it will be. To help assure your new-car purchase is a match made in heaven, use this 25-point checklist to make sure you have all the bases covered. Read more...
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Yahoo wants its users to know what it knows about them. The Internet company is rolling out an online tool that allows consumers to see - and edit - the personal profiles that Yahoo has compiled about them based on their Web browsing behavior. Those profiles are used to target Internet advertising. Read more...
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Cramming happens when a third-party provider responsible for billing customers on behalf of phone companies adds services, such as enhanced voice mail, without a customer's consent. Read more...
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Nineteen cars and 8 SUVs earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Pick award for 2010. For the first time, good performance in a roof strength test to measure protection in a rollover is required to win. Top Safety Pick recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side, rear, and now rollover crashes based on good ratings in Institute tests. Winners also must have electronic stability control, which research shows significantly reduces crash risk. baru is the only manufacturer with a winner in all 4 vehicle classes in which it competes. This automaker earns 5 awards for 2010. Ford and subsidiary Volvo have 6 winners, and Volkswagen/Audi has 5. Chrysler earns 4 awards, continuing a recent trend of improving the crashworthiness of its vehicles. Two new small cars, the Nissan Cube and Kia Soul, join the Top Safety Pick list for 2010. Read more...
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Results from a major indoor air study of 51 homes today along with initial reports from two studies of corrosion in homes with Chinese drywall, show a strong association between homes with the problem drywall and the levels of hydrogen sulfide in those homes and corrosion of metals in those homes. To date, CPSC has received more than 2000 reports from consumers and homeowners concerned about problem drywall in their homes.
Homeowners who believe they may have problem drywall should immediately report to CPSC by calling 800-638-2772 or logging on to www.CPSC.gov. Hearing- or speech challenged individuals may access the phone number through TTY by calling the toll-free Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339. Read more...
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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Stork Craft Manufacturing Inc., of British Columbia, Canada, today announced the voluntary recall of more than 2.1 million Stork Craft drop-side cribs, including about 147,000 Stork Craft drop-side cribs with the Fisher-Price logo. The recall involves approximately 1,213,000 units distributed in the United States and 968,000 units distributed in Canada. CPSC, Health Canada, and Stork Craft are aware of 110 incidents of drop-side detachment; 67 incidents occurred in the United States and 43 in Canada. The incidents include 15 entrapments; 12 in the U.S. and three in Canada. Four of the entrapments resulted in suffocation.
This recall includes Stork Craft cribs with manufacturing and distribution dates between January 1993 and October 2009. This recall also includes Stork Craft cribs with the Fisher-Price logo that have manufacturing dates between October 1997 instruction sheet attached to the mattress support board. The firm’s insignia 'storkcraft baby' or 'storkling' is inscribed on the drop-side teething rail of some cribs. In Stork Craft cribs that contain the 'Fisher-Price' logo, this logo can be found on the crib’s teething rail, in the manufacturer’s instructions, on the assembly instruction sheet attached to the mattress support board, and on the end panels of the Twinkle-Twinkle and Crystal crib models. CPSC urges parents and caregivers to immediately stop using the recalled cribs, wait for the free repair kit, and do not attempt to fix the cribs without the kit. They should find an alternative, safe sleeping environment for their baby. Consumers should contact Stork Craft to receive a free repair kit that converts the drop-side on these cribs to a fixed side. Read more...
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Identity theft claimed 10 million victims in 2008, a 22 percent increase over 2007. Better Business Bureau warns that the holiday season provides many new opportunities for identity thieves to ply their trade and offers the following advice on how to keep your identity safe and secure both online and off. Read more...
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In this season of hope and giving, the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc. have joined forces again to invite the public to "send a touch of home" to United States service members and veterans across the country and abroad through the Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign. Now in its third year, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program provides Americans with the opportunity to extend holiday greetings and thanks to service members and veterans. Last year the program received more than 1.4 million cards for military men and women, their families and veterans. The public can participate in the campaign by sending holiday cards with personal messages to a special post office box from Monday, November 2 through Monday, December 7.
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Preparing Thanksgiving dinner can be a wonderful experience, yet daunting for those planning it. The goal is to have a safe and delicious turkey dinner, and if planned one day at a time, it can be a fun and memorable experience. Read more...
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Bay Valley Foods, LLC, a Pittsburgh, Pa. establishment, is recalling approximately 20,286 pounds of canned cream of mushroom soup because it was inadvertently mislabeled and may contain an undeclared allergen, egg. The soup products were produced on August 7, 2009, and were distributed to retail stores in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky. The following product is subject to recall: Cases containing 24 10.5-ounce cans of incorrectly labeled "Meijer Cream of Mushroom Reduced Sodium Condensed Soup." The product is marked with "BEST BY 08 07 11" that can be found on the bottom of the can and "51 P" inkjetted on the top. The soups may contain "Meijer Chicken Noodle Reduced Sodium Soup."
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The plastic coated lumber on the horizontal ladder (monkey bar/swing beam) can weaken over time due to rotting of the whitewood (spruce, pine and fir species), resulting in a fall hazard. This recall involves wooden play sets with swings, slides and ladders. Each set has an overhead monkey bar ladder that acts as both the monkey bar and swing beam, and an end ladder coated with cranberry or green plastic. The instruction manual has the name "Adventure Playsets" and one of the following model numbers printed on the cover. The swing sets were sold at Walmart, Toys R Us, Academy Sports, Menards, and Mill stores nationwide, and online at Walmart.com, ToyRUs.com, Willygoat.com and through the DMSI catalog from January 2004 through December 2007 for between $300 and $600.
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A consumer survey commissioned by the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) revealed widespread misunderstanding of general purpose gift cards, also sometimes called bank or cash gift cards, and most of which are issued by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. Only 33 percent of a representative sample of 1004 adult Americans know how much these cards cost to purchase, and only 54 percent are aware that 'six to twelve months after purchase, some of these gift cards charge a monthly fee.'
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America's Federal Recreation Lands are special places that bring people together and leave visitors enriched. We invite you to get out and explore these places and share your experience by entering up to three photos into the Share the Experience Photo Contest.
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Fairbank Farms, an Ashville, NY, establishment, is recalling approximately 545,699 pounds of fresh ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. The products were distributed by multiple retailers. Each package bears the establishment number 'EST. 492' inside the USDA mark of inspection or on the nutrition label. These products were packaged on September 15 and 16, 2009, and may have been labeled at the retail stores with a sell-by date from September 19 through 28, 2009.
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Cars and deer can be a lethal combination. Deer migration and mating season generally runs from October through December, and causes a dramatic increase in the movement of the deer population. As a result, more deer-vehicle collisions occur in this period than at any other time of year, so drivers need to be especially cautious
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It’s a Post Office on your phone. Customer convenience and product access are the focus of expanding the most popular online services onto web-enabled mobile devices. Some of the most popular functions currently available on usps.com are now available on cell phones and other mobile devices. The new features include Track & Confirm, Post Office locator, and the most popular application, ZIP Code lookup. Any mobile user with web access will be able to log on to the Postal Service mobile site no matter where they are, without having to use a personal computer.
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The light switch receiver, which fits into the wall outlet, can overheat and pose a fire hazard to consumers. The Handy Switch is a white plastic wireless remote light switch with model number KS-080 printed on the back of the receiver. On the front of the receiver is a blue electroluminescent nightlight.
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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy unveiled the 2010 Fuel Economy Guide, which gives consumers important information about estimated fuel costs and mileage standards for model year 2010 vehicles. Fuel-efficient models come in all types and sizes, so consumers can save thousands of dollars over a vehicle’s lifetime without sacrificing performance. Model year 2010 fuel economy leaders include a wide range of hybrid models, from compact cars to sport-utility vehicles.
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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Blair LLC, of Warren, Pa., are expanding Blair’s voluntary recall of women’s full length chenille robes to include additional chenille robes and three other chenille products all manufactured by A-One Textile & Towel. CPSC and Blair also are re- announcing the earlier recall of women’s robes. Some of these products fail to meet the federal flammability standard and present a risk of serious burns to consumers if the garments are exposed to an open flame. Since announcing the recall in April 2009, Blair has received nine reports of deaths allegedly due to the originally recalled robes catching fire. Blair has received one report on one of the additional garments catching fire; no injuries have been reported. Products were sold via Blair catalogs and Web site, and Blair stores in Warren, Pa., Grove City, Pa., and Wilmington, Del., from July, 2000, through April, 2007.
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The rechargeable batteries can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The recall involves Coby DVD/CD/MP3 players with an 8 ½ inch screen and product number TF-DVD- 8501. The rechargeable batteries sold with the DVD players have serial numbers that begin with "HY." The serial number can be found on a white sticker affixed to the battery. "Coby" is printed on the front cover and the product number is on the bottom of the unit.
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Just because Halloween celebrates scary things doesn’t mean you want any safety scares of your own. With a little bit of planning and these five tips from the Federal Citizen Information Center, you can ensure your ghouls and goblins have a frightfully fun time this year. - Look up your local trick-or-treating time and rules. (See if yours is listed on the USA.gov Halloween page: http://go.usa.gov/l3m). Then plot out a map of safe neighborhoods for trick-or-treating. Let older children take the map with them if they’re trick-or-treating on their own.
- Stick reflective tape on dark costumes—it will help drivers see you. And make sure your kids can see clearly. Face paint may work better than a mask when it comes to visibility. Read about applying face paint safely in the Federal Citizen Information Center’s FED-INFO Newsletter (http://go.usa.gov/l3p).
- Picka perfect pumpkin for carving. It should be sturdy, not soft, with a flat bottom so it doesn’t topple over. If you’re worried about carving accidents, encourage your kids to paint creative faces on their pumpkins instead.
- Consider using a glow stick or battery-powered lights instead of candles to light the way for trick-or-treating or in jack-o-lanterns, especially around little kids who could get burned or drapery that could catch fire.
- Screen candy before your kids eat it. Toss out anything with opened or damaged wrappers and homemade treats, unless you know the giver personally.
For more tips on having a safe, healthy and fun Halloween, visit USA.gov’s Halloween page (http://go.usa.gov/l3m) or check out the tips from our GovGab bloggers (http://go.usa.gov/l3y) on how to make the most of this spooky day.
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The United States has announced it will support a proposal submitted by the principality of Monaco to limit the excessive commercial fishing of the Atlantic bluefin tuna that has led to its precipitous decline in the last ten years.
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The Soap and Detergent Association has unveiled a new online fact sheet that briefs consumers on an industry initiative that will provide more information than ever before on cleaning products and their ingredients. The fact sheet summarizes the new initiative, which creates a uniform system for providing ingredient information to consumers in a meaningful and easy-to-understand way. Read more...
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Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be extremely wary of pervasive online ads offering the promise of a whiter, brighter smile. BBB has received a recent onslaught of complaints from consumers who thought they were signing up for a free trial of teeth whitening products but were repeatedly billed for products and services they didn’t want.
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If you use Microsoft's free Hotmail service, it may be time to change your password: Microsoft said that several thousand Hotmail account credentials were posted online. Read more...
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With billions in stimulus money being released for green energy programs, and millions of Americans eager to help the environment, scammers are trying to cash in. Among their ploys: scammers saying any energy efficient home improvement qualifies for a tax credit, scammers charging unnecessary paperwork fees, scammers posing as a utility company employee, a scammer trying to sell you pricey gadgets, and scammers claiming to be contractors just to name a few.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today a ban on cigarettes with flavors characterizing fruit, candy, or clove. The ban, authorized by the new Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, is part of a national effort by the FDA to reduce smoking in America.
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The recalled children’s animal masks and pendants contain high levels of lead. This recall involves a children’s animal mask and four styles of metal pendants. The mask resembles the face of a cat. The pendants have various animated symbols including a dog tag with fire symbol (Bleach), knife and lion symbol (Final Fantasy), Mickey Mouse symbol (Kingdom of Hearts), and a burning sun symbol (Naruto). The pendants were sold with silver-colored chains.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it has approved four vaccines against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. The vaccines will be distributed nationally after the initial lots become available, which is expected within the next four weeks. People with severe or life-threatening allergies to chicken eggs, or to any other substance in the vaccine, should not be vaccinated.
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USDA and HHS unveiled a new consumer Web site at www.foodsafety.gov. The site is designed to help consumers and families get all the latest information on food safety and food recalls in one convenient place. The new site features information from all the agencies across the federal government that deal with critical food and food safety information, including preventive tips about how to handle food safely, alerts on life-saving food recalls, and the latest news from the key agencies. www.foodsafety.gov provides consumers with one easy place to sign up to receive email and RSS alerts on recalled or potentially unsafe food, as well as get information from the top scientific experts across the government on food safety
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Smithsonian Journeys, renowned for top-quality educational travel for 40 years, and CET Academic Programs, known for its excellent college study abroad programs, introduce a new international language-immersion program created specifically for high school students.
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Being a smart consumer in a world with so many products and services can be somewhat daunting. With so many options available, it is easy to get overwhelmed with major purchase decisions- from the initial research, visiting stores to look at actual products, and then deciding which item to purchase, there are a lot of factors to consider.
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Estate planning isn’t only for the wealthy, nor is it a topic people enjoy thinking about. However, Better Business Bureau advises consumers that if they own something of value they would like to pass on to family or loved ones at their death, they should create an estate plan.
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Manufacturers and retailers often suggest that paying extra for an extended warranty is buying peace of mind. But many consumer experts and shoppers say that's certainly not always the case. Read on for four things to remember about extended warranties and service contracts.
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In some cases dealers are requiring buyers to sign contracts obligating them to repay the program's $3,500 or $4,500 rebate if the government denies the claim -- despite a federal advisory stating that customers are not required to sign such agreements.
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The guide urges parents and kids to talk about the risks involved in using social networking sites and offers tips for using them safely. Includes resources for more information.
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The battery pack can overheat, posing a burn or fire hazard to the consumer. The Wii 4-Dock Recharge Station includes a white docking station with four recharge stations and a four rechargeable battery pack. Brand names are on the front of the packaging and the model numbers, Psyclone (PSE6501) and React (RT530), can be found on the bottom side of the product.
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Summer is here and that means off-road riding is in high season in many communities. As side-by-side recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) continue to gain in popularity, so does the number of reports to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission of injuries and deaths involving these vehicles. Even though ROVs have a roll cage and seat belts, CPSC urges all riders and passengers to remain vigilant about safety before hitting the trails and while off-roading.
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With gas prices zooming up and down like a roller coaster and financial cutbacks continuing, many drivers are looking for ways to save.
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How to avoid resort fees, ID theft, and more.
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With the summer season in full swing, recreational boat owners need to assess whether they have adequate insurance coverage before hitting the high seas. Standard boat policies typically cover damages resulting from a collision, fire or lightning.
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Many parents who work or are looking for work must arrange for care of their children under 13 years of age during the school vacation. The Child and Dependent Care Credit is available for expenses incurred during the lazy hazy days of summer and throughout the rest of the year.
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The National Consumers League (NCL) said that frauds linked to the bad economy are on the rise. NCL warned that consumers’ thinly-stretched pocketbooks have increased their vulnerability to fraudsters offering promises of extra income. The consumer group warned that nearly one in three consumers could be at risk for fraudulent work-at-home schemes and that fake check complaints involving phony sweepstakes and bogus "mystery shopper" jobs continue to increase.
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The play yard’s side rail can fail to latch properly and when a child pushes against the rail it can unlatch unexpectedly, posing a fall hazard to children. This recall involves the Kolcraft Travelin’ Tot play yards, as well as other similar play yards manufactured for Carter’s, Sesame Street, Jeep, Contours, Care Bare and Eric Carle, with model numbers listed below.
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The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is urging families still receiving Katrina/Rita transitional housing assistance to contact HUD to ensure that they are considered for rental vouchers, which are not time limited. A toll-free number, 1-800-955-2232, has been set up to make the process as easy as possible.
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SFCA Inc., the Reading, Pa.-based company that purchased the assets of juvenile product manufacturer Simplicity Inc. after foreclosure, appears to no longer be conducting day to day operations. SFCA Inc. is no longer answering phone calls, responding to e-mails from consumers, or providing repair kits to fix hundreds of thousands of defective cribs. At least 13 children have tragically died in recalled Simplicity cribs and bassinets.
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Through Tweets, e-mail and web sites, job hunters are being told that they can make lots of money from the comfort of home using Twitter and Better Business Bureau warns that the large print for such offers may promise big returns but the fine print can cost them every month.
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A walk in the park is free this weekend! Everyone is invited to national parks across the country for the second of three free admission summer weekends. All 391 national parks will offer free admission this Saturday and Sunday, July 18 and 19, and again on August 15-16.
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Starting July 1, a new repayment option is available that makes monthly payments more affordable for Americans with heavy federal student loan burdens. The new Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan protects borrowers by linking payments to income and family size.
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Computers, sports memorabilia, rare coins, designer fashions, and even cars. These are just a few of the items offered for sale every day on legitimate online auction sites. They’re also just a small sample of the items used to lure unsuspecting victims into online auction fraud schemes.
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Immediately following the announcement of Michael Jackson’s sudden death, enterprising individuals began selling memorabilia online to take advantage of the increased demand. Better Business Bureau warns that the value of most memorabilia and commemorative items being sold is sentimental and the currently inflated prices for many items will drop over time.
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The leg straps in the seat of the float can tear, causing children to unexpectedly fall into or under the water, posing a risk of drowning. The recalled inflatable baby floats were sold in a variety of styles and colors.
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Learn how Listeria can grow on ready-to-eat foods, even if you keep them in the fridge
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The Education Department's summer reading campaign--"Read to the Top!" began on June 23rd. The initiative is in response to President Obama's "United We Serve" national volunteer campaign that calls for all Americans to serve in their communities over the summer.
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The jobless economy is taking a toll on a growing number of college grads who are behind on their student loans. Nearly 7 percent of student loans for fiscal year 2007 are expected to default, involving more than 231,000 borrowers, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the approval of Palladia (toceranib phosphate), the first drug developed specifically for the treatment of cancer in dogs. Palladia is approved to treat canine cutaneous (skin-based) mast cell tumors, a type of cancer responsible for about 1 out of 5 cases of canine skin tumors.
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The Department of the Interior announced that the National Park Service will offer three fee-free weekends this summer to encourage Americans seeking affordable vacations to visit these national treasures.
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With historically low rates, many homeowners are watching closely for the right time to refinance their mortgages. Those with good credit may well recall being showered with praise by a mortgage broker during the initial purchase for that solid credit score.That was then. This is now.
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