Top 10 tips to protect yourself as a consumer

 It’s National Consumer Protection Week.

This year’s theme, Dollars & Sense: Rated “A” for All Ages, highlights the importance of using good consumer sense at every stage of life, from grade school to retirement.

For baby boomers consumers, age 45 to 64, here are the top 10 ways you can protect yourself as a consumer:

1. Watch out for scams. Hot topics now are scams involving bogus business opportunities, employment, money transfer, fake checks, phone offers, charities, mortgage foreclosures, and free computer security.

2. Use caution about investment decisions so you don’t become a victim of investment fraud.

3. Compare credit card issuers and consider signing up with a credit union for a credit card.

4. Do research on any prescription drugs you’re taking, and ask your health care provider detailed questions about any new drugs recommended.

5. Take steps to protect yourself from identity theft.

6. Review how you handle your money to make sure you’re progressing well toward your goals. Figure out what you need to do to get out of debt. Most importantly, determine if you’re saving enough money to have the retirement you want.

7. Use extreme caution when selecting a contractor or roofer to work on your home.

8. Know how to find information about consumer agencies that can help you and file complaints when you have problems.

9. Be informed and ask questions to help you get through a hospital stay safety.

10. Be an alert, informed consumer any time you have your car repaired or you buy a new or used car.

Happy National Consumer Protection Week. By using these tips, you’ll be able to avoid many common problems that plague consumers today.