Protecting ourselves and our family requires that we have access to timely and accurate consumer news and information. Every day there are news stories about product recalls and safety concerns dealing with everything from food, to toys and medications. Knowledge is power, and having the right information, at the right time can make all the difference. To help you get started, we have compiled a list of some of the most visited consumer sites. We encourage you to explore these and other consumer sites, and we welcome your comments or questions. We also invite you to stay informed by signing-up for our consumer email alerts.

Consumer.gov

Consumer.gov is a comprehensive resource for consumer information from the Federal Government; from food and product safety to technology, money, careers and free credit reports. It’s all easy to find and it’s free. http://www.consumer.gov

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The FDA is responsible for protecting and promoting the public health. At this site you will find lots of information relating to food, drugs, medical devices, vaccines, cosmetics, recalls and safety. You can also research and learn more about topics such as Lasik surgery, buying medical products online, and prescription and over the counter medications. You can also sign-up for email updates on topics that interest you or watch food safety videos. The FDA web site is a very useful resource for people of all ages. This site features publications in Spanish. http://www.fda.gov

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

This site deals with practical, everyday subjects such as avoiding ID theft, protecting consumer information, and privacy/security issues.  You will also find links to other sites where you can expand your research.  Available in Spanish.  http://www.ftc.gov

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

The BBB is one of the most popular sources available to check out a business or a charity, research Lemon Law, or insurance issues.  You can also file a complaint against a business or just find a local BBB accredited business in your area.  A resource center offers access to a video library, alerts, books and consumer tips.  The BBB site also has a user friendly News Center containing useful consumer information.  http://www.bbb.org

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

The CPSC is responsible for protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from certain types of consumer products. At this site you can learn about important recalls and product safety news. You can sign up for email announcements and you can report unsafe products. Concerned parents can research child related products such as toys, cribs and strollers. Other links, with up to date product information are available. The information is presented in an easy to navigate and user friendly format. Research and download publications, or go directly to CPSC’s Most Wanted for a current list of the top five home hazards. Available in Spanish. http://www.cpsc.gov

Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC)

FCIC offers publications with a consumer focus. You can also access other sites that show you how to deal with consumer related problems. Some examples include - helping you understand more about money, retirement planning, scam and fraud alerts, recalls, housing employment and consumer news. There is also a section for teachers with free publications and practical lesson plans. This is a very useful resource, and it’s free. Information is also available in other languages, including Spanish. http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov

Revolution Health

Stay informed on the latest health news or find and rate a doctor or a hospital.  Research health concerns, conditions and diseases, including allergies, cancer, back pain, diabetes and pain management.  Learn what you can do to live a healthier life.  You can also look up specific topics such as children’s health, first aid and safety tips.  This site provides access to interesting health tools, including a BMI calculator.  http://www.revolutionhealth.com/

Health Grades

Health Grades provides a variety of healthcare information.  You can research a doctor, hospital or nursing home.  Get information on disciplinary actions, patient opinions or you can use the medical encyclopedia.  Health Grades identifies America’s 50 best hospitals and the most “Distinguished Hospitals.”  Read health related articles from Family Circle or Home Journal; watch a video or sign-up for the free Newsletter.  www.healthgrades.com

Medline Plus

Medline Plus is a service of the U.S National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health.  Here you can get information on 750 Health topics, drugs, supplements and over-the-counter and herbal medications.  They also provide a medical encyclopedia and dictionary, current health news and a service for finding local health related resources.  Sign up for email updates, or watch a video.  The site also features interactive slideshows with sound and pictures.  The information is easy to find and understand.  Available in Spanish.  www.medlineplus.gov

Center for Responsible Lending (CRL)

CRL is a nonprofit organization for opponents of predatory lending.  This web site features resources, news and information to help consumers protect themselves against credit abuses, identity theft and fraud.  Here you can also get information on credit cards, overdraft loans, payday loans and tax refund anticipation loans.  www.responsiblelending.org

The Law Firm of Richard Duarte, P.A. does not in any way endorse or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any of the information provided at these or any other of the related sites.