2009-139
August 25, 2009
For immediate release
OTTAWA - Canadians who plan on shopping in the United States or abroad are reminded that certain consumer products are prohibited in Canada and may be detained at the border.
Health Canada and the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) are working together to raise awareness among Canadian shoppers about important rules and regulations when bringing products back into Canada.
"Prepare yourself before you travel by becoming aware of consumer products that have safety requirements," said Minister of Health Leona Aglukkaq. "To protect the health and safety of Canadians, many of these product safety requirements are different in Canada than in other countries."
The Government of Canada is committed to providing Canadians with up-to-date information about the potential hazards associated with products purchased outside of Canada.
Health Canada works closely with the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) to ensure control over the importation of prohibited or regulated products. The CBSA's border service officers thoroughly screen goods coming into Canada with the help of Health Canada directives that protect Canadians from the entry of unsafe products. If a border service officer finds a prohibited or regulated product, that product may be detained and referred to Health Canada for inspection. If an inspector determines that the product is unsafe, Health Canada will seize the product.
Products that are prohibited in Canada include baby walkers, re-light candles, balloon blowing kits, jequirity beans, yoyo balls, lawn darts with elongated tips, and infant self-feeding devices. Products regulated under the Hazardous Products Act that must meet Canadian safety requirements include: children's sleepwear; cribs, cradles, and playpens; toys; baby gates; strollers; and hockey helmets and face protectors.
Health Canada's Travelling Canadians webpage gives details on the consumer products that are prohibited in Canada or regulated under the Hazardous Product Act.
CAA has created a page on its website that lists several banned and regulated products that could be held at the border. A printable, electronic brochure listing these products can also be downloaded at this web address.
"As Canada's leading voice of motorists and travellers, representing over 5.3 million members, CAA feels we can play an important role in keeping Canadians informed about what can be brought back into Canada," said Tim Shearman, President of the CAA. "We are pleased to be partnering with Health Canada on this important initiative to further raise awareness about this issue."
-30-
Media Enquiries:
Health Canada
(613) 957-2983
Josée Bellemare
Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Federal Minister of Health
(613) 957-0200
Dean Morin
Communications Manager
Canadian Automobile Association
(613) 247-0117 ext. 2026
Public Enquiries:
(613) 957-2991
1-866 225-0709
