Mr. Christmas has issued a recall affecting its wireless decorative tree light controllers due to potential overheating, which poses serious fire hazards. Announced on December 12, 2024, the recall has raised concerns among holiday decorators, especially with Christmas right around the corner.
The affected controllers include various designs sold at major retailers such as Target, Walmart, and Cracker Barrel. One of the models sold at Target features the brand's Wondershop label, resembling a square on/off switch box adorned with festive green, red, and white balls. It displays the words "Tree Lighting Switch," leaving little doubt about its holiday purpose. Meanwhile, the models available at Walmart and Cracker Barrel resemble vibrant peppermint candies complete with candy cane levers, labeled simply as "Christmas Light Controller."
These controllers, manufactured by Mr. Christmas, consist of two parts: the decorative switch and the actual wireless receiver, which plugs directlyinto the outlet. This receiver is at the heart of the issue, as it has been cited for overheating, leading to the significant fire risk.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) explains, "The receiver can overheat, posing a fire hazard." Coupled with this alarming information, the CPSC has also confirmed reports of ten incidents involving these devices overheating, including one alarming case where the overheating led to fire. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported related to the recall.
Each of the white wireless receivers has the brand name printed on them, along with one of three specific model numbers—39611, 39612, or 39630. It's important for consumers who own these products to check their devices, ensuring they identify whether they have one of these models.
Target, Walmart, and Cracker Barrel sold the decorative controllers nationwide and online, between July 2024 and November 2024. The price range for these items was from $25 to $40, placing them well within the holiday decorating budget for many families.
The CPSC has strongly advised consumers to stop using these recalled products immediately. They should return the controllers to the store of purchase for a full refund. "Consumers are advised to immediately stop using the products and should return them to wherever they were purchased to receive a full refund," the CPSC reiterated, which is especially important as holiday decorating season peaks.
This recall has ignited conversations surrounding the safety of holiday products, underscoring the importance of consumer awareness. Consumers are urged to remain vigilant about product recalls and to regularly check updates from organizations like the CPSC, particularly during festive seasons when many new items are on the market.
For those who might have questions or require more information about the recall or refund process, the CPSC provides detailed instructions and assistance on their website. It is wise for consumers to familiarize themselves with information pertaining to product recalls, ensuring their safety and peace of mind during holiday festivities.
With the holiday season being such a busy time, it’s easy to overlook even the most pressing safety concerns. Mr. Christmas and other manufacturers are committed to ensuring their products are safe for consumers, yet it remains fundamentally the consumer's responsibility to stay informed.
Therefore, keeping abreast of new product warnings and recalls should be seen as part of the joyful holiday preparation process. After all, nothing's worse than worrying about potential hazards when all one wants is to enjoy the cheery ambiance of beautifully lit holiday decorations.
