May 2021

Consumer Edge

Office of Consumer Affairs

May 2021

In this issue of Consumer Edge, we share information on how to better protect yourself while enjoying time outdoors and we invite you to participate in a conference on the consumer marketplace of the future.

Emergency Preparedness Week

Emergency Preparedness (EP) Week takes place from May 2 to 8, 2021, across Canada. The COVID-19 global pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on Canadians. Now, more than ever, we understand that we all have a role to play in emergency preparedness. You can help to protect yourself, and others, against COVID-19 by staying informed. Visit www.Canada.ca/coronavirus for the latest information on the response to COVID-19 and more tips on how to continue to help prevent the spread.

To find a wealth of information on how to prepare and respond quickly in case of an emergency, check out the Get Prepared website.

Summer safety tips

Canadians will be turning to the outdoors for social-distanced activities this year. When spending time outside, safety should remain top of mind. For practical advice on things like how to stay cool in the summer heat, check out these summer safety tips.

Looking forward to some fun in the sun? Make sure to stay sun safe. Take steps like using sunscreen to protect yourself and your family from the sun's harmful UV rays. Get sunscreen tips from Health Canada—from the proper application of sunscreens to understanding sunscreen labels.

If you're thinking of heading out on a boat, kayak or canoe, remember that you're required by law to wear a lifejacket or PFD on board. Transport Canada provides information to help you choose Canadian-approved lifejackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs).

Pop quiz: insect repellent

Which products below are NOT recommended for effective and long-lasting protection against insect bites?

Sorry! You have answered incorrectly.

The answer is d) all of the above. According to Health Canada, none of the above-mentioned products are recommended for effective and long-lasting protection against insect bites. Products that combine skin moisturizer and insect repellent are not approved in Canada. And while many area repellents such as lanterns and coils are approved in Canada to repel mosquitoes within a delineated space, they do not protect people from insect bites. Consult the Insect repellents web page to learn how to use insect repellent safely and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Congratulations! You chose the right answer.

The answer is d) all of the above. According to Health Canada, none of the above-mentioned products are recommended for effective and long-lasting protection against insect bites. Products that combine skin moisturizer and insect repellent are not approved in Canada. And while many area repellents such as lanterns and coils are approved in Canada to repel mosquitoes within a delineated space, they do not protect people from insect bites. Consult the Insect repellents web page to learn how to use insect repellent safely and how to choose the right one for your needs.

International conference on "The Consumer marketplace of the future"

From June 15 to 17, 2021, the Committee on Consumer Policy will hold its International Consumer Conference to celebrate 50 years of consumer policy at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

For information on this online public event, visit the International conference on the consumer marketplace of the future web page.

To register for other OECD events, please consult the Key upcoming OECD events section of their website.

Of note, key events will be recorded and can be watched on demand!