Recall: NBG International Recalls Christmas Lights

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 13, 2001 Release # 02-064

NBG Hotline: (877) 532-8949 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Yolanda Fultz-Morris, (301) 504-7066

CPSC and NBG International Announce Recall of Christmas Lights

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), NBG International Inc., of Houston, Texas, is voluntarily recalling about 100,000 strings of "Rice Light" decorative Christmas lights. The lights have undersize wire and could present electric shock or fire hazards.

CPSC and NBG International have not received any reports of injuries or incidents associated with these Christmas lights. This recall is being conducted to prevent electric shocks and fires.

The Rice Christmas lights are 21-feet long with 140 non- replaceable mini-bulbs. The lights have a control box that allows for an eight-function, four-way flashing light show. The attached 3-inch control box has a round dial on top numbered "1" through "8." The wires are available in three colors: black, white or green. The lights have a fused plug, and are sold in a green box that included the writing "Rice Light," "140 Mini Bulb String" and "MADE IN CHINA." There is no mark of an independent testing laboratory.

Novelty and holiday stores sold these lights nationwide from June 1998 through November 2001 for between $7 and $10.

Consumers who have the recalled lights should stop using them immediately and contact the firm for a free replacement set of Christmas lights. For more information, contact NBG International at (877) 532- 8949 between 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or email the firm at nbgjf@worldnet.att.net.

When purchasing or using decorative holiday lights, CPSC recommends the following safety tips:

• Make sure the lights contain a mark of a recognized testing lab such as UL, ETL, etc.
  
  
• Use only lights that have fused plugs
  
  
• If used outdoors, be certain the lights are rated for outdoor use.
  
  
• To prevent overheating, replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs.
  
  
• Discard any lights with frayed or damaged wires.
  
  
• When using an extension cord, make sure that it is rated for the intended use.