As the start of the new school year draws near, the Consumer Affairs Department (CAD) is making an ongoing effort to educate the public about their rights as consumers in order to reduce dispute in business dealings and allow a seamless transition to the new academic year. Some tips have been compiled by the CAD for individuals who may be shopping for school supplies this year.

Know what to buy: Verify that you have the appropriate book list for the desired school and grade.

Where to buy: When making purchases, it's crucial to go to reputable book stores with excellent after-sale support rather than impromptu sellers.

Compare Prices: As with any purchase, it is vital to compare prices to find the best deal on each item on your list. It will also be beneficial to review social media, radio, and television advertisements for sales information.

Ask Questions: It is important to ask relevant questions BEFORE completing the purchase, to make sure you are buying the correct title, author and/or edition of the required text books.

Examine Books thoroughly: It is crucial to carefully inspect the products for quality and damage before purchasing.

Ensure a Bill of Receipt is Received: A bill or receipt that serves as your proof of purchase must be included with every purchase. It provides details on what was bought, where and when it was bought, the date of purchase, and the cost. Customers must demand a correct receipt.

Communicate: Complaints or dissatisfaction about a product or service must be communicated to the seller or manufacturer as well as to a regulatory body such as the Consumer Affairs Division.

The Consumer Affairs Department remains committed to protecting the interest and ensuring the safety of all consumers. Should you have any concerns, please contact the Consumer Affairs Department at 468-4226/4229.