PEOPLE in Hillingdon are being urged to shop smart and celebrate safely at Christmas.

Staff in the council’s trading standards team, with responsibility for food safety, hygiene and licensing team, have shared some tips to help everyone enjoy the season.

It might be tempting to buy cheaper items at present, but sometimes the costs might be greater if toys, cheap vapes and electrical goods don’t meet UK safety guidelines.

And as more people flock to restaurants, pubs and clubs, people are urged to be aware of drink-spiking in crowded bars.

With concerns around bird flu, many more people will be buying frozen, or previously frozen, turkeys. Always follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe defrosting, storage and cooking.

If you’re eating out with family, friends or colleagues, you can check a restaurant’s hygiene rating at www.food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/food-hygiene-rating-scheme.

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “We absolutely don’t want to dampen anyone’s spirits this Christmas, but we are duty bound to ensure residents are equipped with the knowledge and awareness to enjoy the season in safety.

“In the current financial climate, with many people struggling, unscrupulous doorstep traders may seek to take advantage of the vulnerable, while other residents may be tempted to buy cheaper goods to save money and so risk bringing counterfeit, or unsafe, items into the home.”

If you have a gift you think may be counterfeit or unsafe, you can find consumer advice at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/trading-standards