consumer alert

Tuesday, September 29, 2026

New protection for used vehicle buyers in California

CA/Used Vehicles—   By Suzanne Potter, producer, California News Service, bureau of Public News Service.   More safeguards are coming for used car buyers in California, starting Oct. 1, when a host of new first-in-the-nation consumer protections kick in. The California Combating Auto Retail Scams Act will give people who buy a car for less than $50,000 a three-day grace […]
Wednesday, September 2, 2026

What to do if you spot a scam

USA/Scams— Scams are potting up everywhere, but there is something you can do. Federal officials say keeping it to yourself might be your first reaction, but it helps the fraudsters. If you spread the word about your scam experience, you shine a light on the con artists. The Federal Trade Commission recommends you ” share it with friends, family, and […]
Tuesday, August 25, 2026

LA County Health Officials issue warnings about dangerous temperatures

Southland/Weather— For Immediate Release: August 24, 2026 Extreme Heat Warning: High Temperatures Expected Across Parts of Los Angeles County   The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health urges residents to take steps to stay cool and hydrated as high daytime temperatures and unusually warm overnight conditions are forecast to impact the region. Residents should check their specific neighborhood conditions […]
Friday, August 21, 2026

Los Angeles County health officials report first West Nile virus death of 2026

Southland/Health— For Immediate Release: August 20, 2026 First West Nile Virus Death of 2026 Reported in LA County – Public Health Urges Residents to Take Steps to Prevent the Spread of Mosquito-Borne Illness The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed the first local death due to West Nile virus for the 2026 mosquito season. A resident of […]
Thursday, August 13, 2026

Growing concern about pneumococcal pneumonia

Health/Pneumococcal Pneumonia—   (StatePoint) Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious illness caused by bacteria called pneumococcus. The illness can disrupt a person’s life for weeks, and when severe, can result in hospitalization. In fact, an estimated 225,000 adults are hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia each year in the United States. The American Lung Association, in partnership with Pfizer, is educating people […]
Monday, August 10, 2026

Measles exposure warning for Universal Studios Hollywood

Health/Measles— Los Angeles County Health Officials are warning the public about a person who was infected with Measles while visiting a popular entertainment amusement park in Universal City. The case was investigated recently by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The investigation concluded the infected person was at Universal Studios Hollywood Sunday, July 26, 2026, for several hours– […]
Saturday, August 8, 2026

Hot temperatures this weekend, and some beach warnings

Southland/Beaches— Hot and humid weather conditions this weekend. There are heat warnings and advisories as well.  Big crowds hdeaded to the beaches for some relief. However, there are warning for some coastal areas from the Los Angeles County Department of Health.   For Immediate Release: August 07, 2026 Ocean Water Use Warning for Los Angeles County Beaches   The Los […]
Monday, August 3, 2026

From wildfires to heat waves helping victims get through CA disasters

CA/Disaster Assistance—   By Suzanne Potter, producer, California News Service, a bureau of Public News Service.   California is regularly beset with disasters, natural and otherwise, which can take an emotional toll. This year alone, the Golden State has battled more than 4,000 wildfires, struggled through record heat waves and more. Lisa Pion-Berlin, president and CEO of Parents Anonymous, which runs […]
Saturday, July 25, 2026

Los Angeles County Dept of Public Health issues beach warnings

Southland/Beach Warnings—   July 23, 2026 Ocean Water Use Warning for Los Angeles County Beaches   The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health advises the public to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters at the following Los Angeles County beaches due to elevated bacteria levels that exceed state health standards:   BEACH AREA WARNINGS:   The warning […]