DACO inspecting 400-plus businesses for hurricane season

BY THE STAR STAFF

The Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO by its acronym in Spanish) launched an enforcement operation on Thursday, targeting more than 400 businesses with the start of the 2026 hurricane season.

“The purpose of this operation is to maintain active vigilance throughout Puerto Rico to ensure that consumers have access to clear and accurate information regarding the products they need to prepare for any emergency,” DACO Secretary Hiram Torres Montalvo said in a written statement.

On Thursday through Saturday, inspectors from DACO’s five regions will visit supermarkets, hardware stores, pharmacies, department stores, gas stations and retailers specializing in emergency supplies.

Agency personnel will verify compliance with laws and regulations, product availability, labeling, and price trends for items used in emergency preparedness.

Products under monitoring include drinking water, non-perishable foods, batteries, flashlights, electricity generators, propane gas, portable coolers, construction materials, fuel containers, portable radios, first aid supplies and cleaning products.

Torres Montalvo said there is currently no active price freeze order in effect, but emphasized that the agency will maintain vigilance regarding market behavior.

Inspection teams will also document their findings, provide guidance to merchants regarding their responsibilities, and address situations requiring immediate intervention.

Consumers may request proof of purchase, verify store policies before completing transactions, and report irregularities or deceptive practices through the agency’s official channels.

Information may be submitted to confidencia@daco.pr.gov, via the website at www.daco.pr.gov, or by visiting any of DACO’s five regional offices.