Christmas Lights Recall by In-Mar Trading

Christmas Lights Recall by In-Mar Trading NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Ken Giles December 19, 1996 (301) 504-7052 Release # 97-049 CPSC and In-Mar Trading Recall Christmas Lights WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), In-Mar Trading Inc. of Dorado, Puerto Rico is recalling over 140,000 Christmas light sets. The lights have no fuse protection and present a fire hazard due to inadequate wiring. In-Mar is not aware of any fires or injuries involving these lights. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The Christmas lights can be identified by the following labeling on the box top: "CHRISTMAS ELEMENTS - 50 SUPER BRIGHT LIGHTS - indoor/outdoor - total length for each set 22 ft - flashing or non-flashing - guaranteed to light." "CHRISTMAS ELEMENTS - 100 SUPER BRIGHT LIGHTS - 5 WAY FLASH - this set is a Low Wattage Energy Saver." "CHRISTMAS ELEMENTS - 105 SUPER BRIGHT LIGHTS WITH CHASER - this set is a Low Wattage Energy Saver." In-Mar Trading sold the lights in discount stores in Puerto Rico since October 1996 for about $2 to $5. Consumers should stop using these lights immediately, and return the lights to the store where purchased for a full refund. If consumers have questions about this recall, they can call In-Mar at (809) 796-1560. 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.