Car boot sales and casual markets have much to offer, can be fun and you can get some real bargains, but bargain hunters must be aware there is some risk involved.

If something is unbelievably cheap and looks too good to be true, it probably is. It could be a fake or even stolen property. Copies are usually illegal, of poor quality and potentially unsafe. Stolen goods could mean you end up on the wrong side of the law.

Many second-hand items either do not comply with strict modern-day safety standards or are worn out and downright dangerous.


Are you buying from a trader or a private individual?

At a car boot sale, your normal rights as a consumer are very limited. When you buy from a trader, you should be able to get your money back if goods are faulty. But if you buy from a car boot sale you may never see the seller again because car boot sales are not permanent fixtures. Private individuals only have to ensure that the goods are "as described". Although you are better protected when dealing with a trader, obtaining redress for faulty goods may still be difficult. Examine the goods before you purchase.


Toys

Many second-hand toys will not conform to modern standards. There may be hidden sharp edges or spikes. Here are a few helpful tips: l You should not be able to remove small parts such as eyes that could cause a child to choke l Beware of damaged toys that could be dangerous l All new toys should be marked with the CE Mark. This shows that the item complies with European safety requirements. Remember, a cheap and shoddy toy is not a bargain if a child gets hurt.


Electrical Items

Second-hand electrical items have often served their useful purpose. Many are so old and worn that they could be dangerous. Leads should be checked to make sure they are not fraying, worn, broken or cut. Beware of mains leads where the conductive wires are not green and yellow for earth (where fitted), blue for neutral and brown for live. Equipment with red, green and black wires will be very old and should be avoided. How can you tell if that "bargain" appliance is safe? The short answer is that you can't. How cheap is a bargain if your life is put in danger?


Counterfeit Goods

Car boot sales are regular outlets for some traders to sell copies of well-known brands of music tapes, videos, designer clothing, perfume, etc. These are known as "counterfeit" goods and it is unlawful to sell them. Look out for stalls that have large quantities of these items and beware. Counterfeit goods are usually cheap, but they are rarely value for money. Some counterfeit goods can even threaten your safety, such as cosmetics or car parts.


Stolen Goods

Unfortunately, stolen goods are often disposed of through boot sales. Usually, they are items that have been stolen from sheds or garages. Check to see if the item you are purchasing has a visible post code. If it has, ask the seller to repeat the code to you. If he can't, it may be stolen. Also, check to see if there is any damage to the item which indicates that a post code has been removed or obliterated.

* For information or advice on any of the above, phone Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 between 8am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturday.