Be cautious and do your research when looking to hire a tradesperson. The OFT has taken several businesses and their owners to court after they failed to provide building services including fencing and landscaping. Stay up to date with our court actions: ow.ly/Klyp50OtWSz

Looking to bag a bargain during the mid year sales? Refunds aren’t always an automatic right. Businesses don’t have to give you a refund if you change your mind, buy the wrong size or the wrong colour. Remember to check the store’s returns policy. ow.ly/vXQa50LAEVH

The latest edition of Safetyzone – OFT’s product safety newsletter, is out now! Read it here: ow.ly/fzFQ50OtX0y

Our #BuySmart Competition helps young Queenslanders learn important consumer skills. Students in Years 4 to 12 can enter now for the chance to win a share of $15,000! qld.gov.au/buysmartcomp

Do your research before booking a bond cleaner. •plan ahead •check reviews •be wary if asked to pay in full without a quote or inspection •review the T&Cs • be wary of people offering cleaning services on online marketplaces •check they are licensed to do pest control

Unstable furniture around the home can be a serious hazard to young children. The ACCC is seeking your thoughts on #topplingfurnituresafety to help create valuable safety information. To participate visit: ow.ly/IUZF50OLt9y

When using a hot water bottle to keep warm, avoid direct contact with skin. To prevent burns, only fill with hot tap water – not boiling water. Use a fitted cover or wrap the bottle before use. Watch our video for tips: youtube.com/watch?v=HTVELH… #WinterSafety

Hair straighteners heat up to over 200°C in less than 10 mins. They can cause injury and leave permanent scars. Keep them away from kids. •Turn the device off immediately after use •Put out of kids reach •Wait for plates to cool before leaving unattended •Once cool store away

Low hanging blinds and curtain cords are a strangulation risk to children and pets. Keep them safe by following safety instructions. Keep cords at least 160cm off the floor and out of reach. Including being kept away from furniture and cots. ow.ly/7Nab50OuYre

Make sure you use your heater the right way this winter. Place the heater on a flat surface and make sure it’s away from children and pets and at least 1 metre from combustible items. For more winter safety info visit productsafety.gov.au/wellwinter #WinterSafety

The amount lost to online shopping scams continues to rise each year. •Avoid targeted social media ads or sites with products well below retail price •Being pressured? Stop and think. Don't let your guard down •Look for counterfeit receipts and invoices ow.ly/84Fg50OuYxU

Electric blankets can feel snug, but it’s safest to turn them off before falling asleep. Check the cords aren’t frayed before use and ensure there are no heavy objects on the blanket while it’s on. See more winter safety tips: productsafety.gov.au/wellwinter #WinterSafety

Watch out for tax time scammers pretending to be from the Australian Taxation Office(ATO).Scammers may text or call to say your tax file number has been banned or you're receiving a large refund. It’s recommended you don’t click on links.If you’re unsure contact the ATO directly.

If you use alcohol fuelled devices for warmth or decoration, ensure children and flammables are kept away from the device. Before refilling, check the flame is completely out and the device has cooled. For more winter safety tips ow.ly/FjZC50JjeBG #WinterSafety

Before using buy now pay later services: •Check the fees and if they are worth it – including late fees and processing fees •Keep track of your account and don’t overspend – put a limit on •Budget for other bills •Missing payments could affect your credit report or loans

If you have a fireplace at home make sure it’s properly ventilated and the chimney is kept clean. We suggest using a mesh screen to prevent sparks and wood from falling out. For more safety tips about keeping warm visit productsafety.gov.au/wellwinter #WinterSafety

New rules making ongoing first aid training for crowd controllers and bodyguards easier have begun. This change aims to improve accessibility to first aid training, especially in regional areas, and reduce the cost burden to licensees. Learn more: ow.ly/z7Hw50P2cm1

Candles can be calming, especially in winter. But never leave open flames unsupervised or near materials that can catch fire such as curtains, bedding or clothing. Keep matches & lighters out of children’s reach. More winter safety tips: productsafety.gov.au/wellwinter #WinterSafety

We use heat warming devices a lot more in winter, so now’s a good time to check your smoke alarm works. If it’s more than 10 years old it’s due for replacing & batteries must be replaced every 12 months, See more winter safety tips: productsafety.gov.au/wellwinter #WinterSafety

Your home is more prone to mould in winter and this can trigger respiratory issues. To prevent mould ventilate your home. Clean up mould by scrubbing with soapy water or vinegar and dry the item. See more winter safety tips: productsafety.gov.au/wellwinter #WinterSafety