On Air: Fukuoka City Information/2014.01.25(Sat)/09:00～

The advancement of manufacturing technology brings with it many new products. And, while they bring convenience to our lives, at the same time they also cause many accidents. These accidents aren't only the fault of manufacturing flaws, but are also due to extended overuse use of products, as well as use of products for purposes other than which they were originally intended. Here are a few examples of behaviors that can cause, or prevent, accidents.

When using oil-based stoves, be sure to turn them off completely when refilling them with fuel. If you do not fully extinguish the flame, it is extremely dangerous. Spilt fuel is likely to cause a fire.

When using a Japanese kotatsu heated table, it is dangerous if you push its quilt in under the table-top and it touches the heating unit. Also, putting clothes underneath a kotatsu to dry them can also lead to fire.

When you leave appliances plugged in for extended periods of time, dust builds up in the plug unit. This can absorb moisture and lead to electric shock or fire. Clean plugs regularly and be sure to unplug appliances you will not be using for long periods of time.

Prevent accidents caused by products before they start by taking proper precautions.

The Fukuoka City Consumer Affairs Center offers consultation on problematic products and service contracts regarding accidents due to faulty goods and otherwise related to products. The consultation is restricted to those living in, going to school in, or commuting to work in Fukuoka City.

The center provides services by phone between 9 AM and 5 PM weekdays. It also provides consultation between 10 AM and 4 PM on every second and fourth Saturday of the month. Please be aware that services are only offered in Japanese. The number to call is 092-781-0999.

You can also receive consultation in person between 9 AM and 5 PM weekdays at the center. Just go to the consultation corner, located on the 7th floor of AIREF in Maizuru, in the Chuo Ward of Fukuoka City. Services are available only in Japanese, so please be sure to bring a person capable of communicating in Japanese with you when you come for consultation. And, in order to provide services smoothly, please plan in advance and have any papers, contracts or other documentation you wish to discuss with you when you come to the Center.

There are also consultation services available on the Internet. These services are available only in Japanese as well. For further information, please enter "Fukuokashi Shouhi Seikatsu Senta-"(福岡市消費生活センター) in Japanese in your web browser and visit the homepage.