Recall: Christmas Lights Recall

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles
December 17, 1996 (301) 504-7052
Release # 97-045

CPSC and Manufacturers Announce Recall of Christmas Lights

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), two manufacturers are recalling about 30,225 Christmas light sets. The lights have no fuse protection and contain inadequate wiring presenting a fire hazard.

The manufacturers participating in this recall are Thrifty Distributors and Golden Bay Enterprises, both of Hempstead, N.Y. CPSC and these manufacturers are not aware of any fires or injuries involving these lights. These recalls are being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

Thrifty Distributors Recall

Thrifty Distributors is recalling the following lights, about 225 sets, which can be identified by the following labeling on the box top:
  • "35/2-WAY FLASHER/LIGHT SET - 35 JUEGO DE LUCES DE NAVIDAD-Pretested! Guaranteed to light! Weatherproof! Energy Saver! Replacement Bulbs! - Swallow Brand."
  • "Christmas TREE-TOP DECORATION - REPLACEABLE PUSH-IN BULBS - PRE-TESTED GUARANTEED TO LIGHT."

Thrifty Distributors sold the lights in discount and dollar-type stores in the Greater New York and Philadelphia areas within the last few weeks for about $1. For more information, consumers can call Thrifty Distributors at (800) 281-7231. Consumers who live in the New York metropolitan area should call (516) 538-1300.

Golden Bay Enterprises Recall

Golden Bay Enterprises is recalling the following lights, about 30,000 sets, which can be identified by the following labeling on the box top:
  • "50 3-WAY FLASHER CHRISTMAS LIGHT SET - PRE-TESTED - GUARANTEED TO LIGHT - WHEN ONE BULB GOES OUT THE REST REMAIN LIT - SPARE BULB INCLUDED - NOEL."
Golden Bay Enterprises sold the lights in discount stores in Florida from October through December 1996 for about $1. For more information, consumers can call Golden Bay Enterprises at (800) 791-2960.

Consumers should stop using the recalled lights immediately, and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. If consumers have questions about these recalls, they should call the manufacturers or CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772.

CPSC is recommending that consumers use the following light safety suggestions to ensure this holiday season is a safe and happy one.
  • Look for a label stating that the lights were tested by a recognized testing laboratory.

  • Check for fuses that guard against overload. An overload could cause a fire.

  • Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, loose connections, and loose or missing bulbs. Replace defective bulbs, and if a set is damaged, do not buy or use the set.