With government officially proclaiming March 15 - 22 as Consumer Awareness Week, consumers and businesses in B.C. are set to take the spotlight and have the chance to educate themselves about their rights and responsibilities in the marketplace.

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Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond.

During B.C.'s first ever Consumer Awareness Week, the Ministry of Justice, Consumer Protection BC, and partner organizations will share important tips on a number of significant marketplace issues under the theme Take Five. These include:

• Top consumer tips of all-time.
• Tips if buying on credit.
• Car buying tips.
• Tips for choosing a business.

"Building on the success of Fraud Prevention Month, Consumer Awareness Week provides a great opportunity to help all British Columbians protect themselves, make informed decisions in the marketplace and encourage positive business practices. We are proud to join Consumer Protection BC and other organizations in this new initiative," says Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond.

The theme represents not only the number of tips that will be released per day during the week (5), but also the need for consumers to pause before making a purchasing decision.

March having been declared Fraud Prevention Month, Consumer Awareness Week will continue to help promote a fair marketplace for B.C. consumers and businesses.

"Consumer Protection BC is committed to empowering both consumers and businesses by providing a range of self-help tools, educational materials and assistance to help navigate a changing marketplace. Consumer Awareness Week highlights the rights consumers have under the law in British Columbia," says Manjit Bains, vice president, corporate relations, Consumer Protection BC.