Yard sale signs are popping up around the state. You may find yourself slowing down as you cross your neighborhood, peeking into garages and scanning driveways for deals. These sales may be a bargain shopper’s paradise, but safety, not cost, should be your top concern when assessing whether to purchase a second-hand item.

“When it comes to products offered through rummage or yard sales, the assessment of an item’s safety is the responsibility of the buyer,” said Frank Frassetto, Administrator for DATCP’s Division of Trade and Consumer Protection. “You may not be able to retur...