THE SAFETY ZONE : TODAY’S TIPS : Beware Hard Sell, Know the Rules for In-Home Purchases

Making purchases in the comfort of your living room may seem like an easy way to shop. It can be. But you also can be pressured into buying something you don’t want or need by listening to promises, compliments and double talk. So, before the doorbell rings, arm yourself with a lot of willpower and some knowledge of your rights. Before you open the door, remember:

* On door-to-door sales of $25 or more, you have the right to cancel most contracts within three days (real estate and insurance sales are two exceptions).

* The salesman must tell you of this right to cancel your sale.

* Only sign a contract that has a “notice of cancellation” clause. All terms of payment should be clearly spelled out, all blanks filled in, the seller’s address listed.

* If you cancel, return the cancellation form by registered mail. This way, you will have a receipt and proof of cancellation.

* If you cancel, the seller must refund all your money within 10 days.

* If you cancel, the seller is obligated to pick up the merchandise or pay return shipping expenses within 20 days. If he fails to do this, the merchandise is yours to keep.

Eyeglasses

Many people believe they have to buy prescription eyeglasses from the doctor who examined their eyes, but this is not true.

* You should shop around for eyeglasses and try to get the best quality for the best price. First, be sure to get a copy of your prescription. Under the law, your eye doctor is required to give you one at no extra charge.

* If you don’t automatically get a copy, be sure to ask for it. With your prescription in your hand, you will be able to comparison shop for the most reasonable price.

Be sure to look at newspaper ads. You’ll find prices for glasses vary a great deal from one place to the other. However, while cost is important, it is not the only thing you should consider.

* Know the difference between ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in treating eyes. They can perform surgery, treat eye disease and injury, prescribe drugs and prescribe corrective lenses. Optometrists are graduates of optometry school. They are doctors of optometry. They are trained to detect eye diseases, but they cannot treat them. They can examine eyes and write lens prescriptions, and they sell eye wear. Opticians cannot examine eyes or write prescriptions. They can only sell eye wear prescribed by ophthalmologists or optometrists.

Source: Los Angeles County Department of Consumer Affairs