PEOPLE'S lives are being put at risk by a sharp increase in counterfeit goods that look just like the real thing.

Although they appear to be bargains when first bought, the fakes are frequently shoddily made, with no thought given to safety and reliability.

Trading standards chiefs fear that their use could damage health - or even lead to a tragedy - and are calling on buyers to shun the dodgy deals.

North Yorkshire's trading standards team have teamed up with the national Anti-Counterfeiting Group to lead the campaign as part of National Consumer Week.

Grim examples of counterfeit goods they have come across include mobile phone hands-free kits, which actually melt in the car, causing a potentially lethal distraction.

They have also found fake perfume, where urine has been used as a stabiliser, and condoms that do not work.

Fake brand name toys, cleaning products and electrical equipment are also among items sold at discount stores, car boot sales and markets, which can be dangerous as they slip through the quality controls of reputable manufacturers.

Carl Les, executive member for trading standards for North Yorkshire County Council, said: "Counterfeiting is a problem that affects everyone in the community.

"We all know about counterfeit CDs and DVDs, but many people may be surprised to learn there is everything from counterfeit brand name washing powder to counterfeit designer face cream on sale, some of which can cause major health problems."

Consumers are being advised to avoid the risks by buying from reputable dealers and to resist the temptation to buy cheap from outlets such as car boot sales and discount stores.

Graham Venn, head of North Yorkshire's trading standards team, said: "Many people do not realise that virtually every product area suffers from counterfeiting - products such as designer sunglasses, photocopier toner, cigarettes and even council refuse sacks.

"Corners are cut in producing copy products, which means they will not only be sub-standard, but may also be unsafe or even in some cases dangerous - for example power tools which have both electronic and mechanical failings.

"The general rule of thumb when buying anything is that if it looks too good to be true, it almost certainly is."