Online shopping has become a daily habit – just a few clicks are enough to order a product from anywhere in the world. But is what you're buying safe? Not all products available on the market meet the required standards, and some may pose a risk to health or life. That’s why the European Union operates Safety Gate – a special alert system that helps detect and remove dangerous products before they reach consumers. This tool can also help you by allowing you to easily check whether a product has been withdrawn from the market.
What is Safety Gate?
Safety Gate is a warning system that provides information about dangerous products and those that do not meet safety standards. It operates across the entire European Union—if a hazardous product is detected in one country, the information is immediately shared with other member states, and relevant authorities take action to remove it from the market. This helps consumers avoid risks and prevents dangerous items from being used.
How to check if a product is safe?
If you're planning a purchase and want to make sure the product is not on the warning list, you can check it yourself. Simply visit the Safety Gate website, where regular updates on recalled products are published. Just enter the product name in the search bar to see if it has been reported as dangerous.
What to look out for when shopping?
Whether you're shopping in a physical store or online, following a few simple rules can help you avoid problems:
- Check the seller – If you're shopping online, make sure the store provides full contact details. A lack of company information can be a red flag.
- Look for warnings – Products should have proper labels, such as age recommendations for toys or safety usage instructions.
- Read customer reviews – Other buyers’ experiences can help you assess whether a product meets safety standards.
- Report issues – If a purchased product turns out to be defective or dangerous, inform the seller and relevant authorities. You can also leave an online review to warn others.
- Register your product with the manufacturer – For some items, like electronic devices, manufacturers offer registration, allowing you to receive updates on potential hazards or necessary updates quickly.
Why is it important to check products?
Safety is a priority—especially when it comes to products that can affect health or life, such as toys, electrical equipment, or cosmetics. Thanks to Safety Gate, consumers have access to reliable information that helps them make informed decisions. Taking just a few minutes to check a product can prevent dangers and unnecessary stress.
If you want to learn more, visit the Safety Gate website to see which products have recently been recalled. Additionally, the RCC Research and Development Center provides essential information to help you make conscious purchasing choices. This simple step can significantly improve your shopping safety.
