At the start of the new school year, many parents purchase smart devices for their children – smartwatches, phones, or other gadgets that help with communication and safety. To ensure that a new device is safe and reliable, the Consumer Rights Protection Centre (CRPC) encourages parents to pay attention to several essential requirements.
3 Things You Must Check:
1. Labelling on the device and its packaging
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CE marking (indicates compliance with EU requirements).
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Manufacturer’s name/trademark and address.
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If the manufacturer is outside the EU, the importer’s and responsible person’s name and address.
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Type/model, batch, or serial number.
2. Instructions
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Provided with the device and available in Latvian.
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Include usage rules and safety warnings.
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Clearly state the intended purpose, operating instructions, maintenance requirements, and any limitations, including those related to updates.
3. Declaration of Conformity
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Supplied with the device or included in the instructions with a link to the full text online.
Why Is This Important?
If a device has the proper labelling and documents, it means the product has been tested and complies with essential requirements. This helps protect both children and parents from unpleasant surprises – for example, the device not functioning as intended, interfering with other equipment, or putting personal data at risk.
What to Keep in Mind When Using a Smart Device?
When using a smart device, it is necessary to strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially regarding charging, usage limitations, and mandatory updates. It is also important to remember the basic rules of internet safety.
How to Check?
On the CRPC website, you can find a self-assessment checklist that guides you step by step to verify whether the smart device’s labelling, Declaration of Conformity, and instructions meet the requirements and are suitable for use in Latvia and the EU.