Christmas Lights Recalled by GEM Stores

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 21, 2000
Release # 01-060a

Company Phone Number: (718) 217-5600
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic, (301) 504-7058

Christmas Lights Recalled by GEM Stores

PRODUCT: Christmas Lights - GEM Stores, of Jamaica, N.Y., is recalling 50,000 sets of miniature Christmas lights and icicle-style lights. The lights are flashing, steady burning or chasing light in various colors and they were made in China. The lights were sold in GEM stores throughout New York from November 2000 to December 2000. A "GEM STORES" orange price sticker is affixed to each box.

Light Set-Writing on Box	Description of packaging	Price
50 window ice lights	Blue box with picture of a house.	$2
100 icicle lights	Brown striped box with picture of house. Santa's Christmas Magic brand.	$4
140 Action Light Set/Chaserlights	Blue box with snowflakes, stockings, trees, and holly.	$8
100 mini light set	Blue box with snowflakes, stockings, trees, and holly.	$4
50 miniature lights	Red and green box. Trim a Tree brand.	$1
100 miniature lights	Red and green box. Trim a Tree brand.	$2
100 miniature light set	Red striped box with picture of tree branches. Santa's Christmas Magic brand.	$4

PROBLEM: The lights have undersized wires that can easily pull out of the plugs and light sockets, posing electric shock and fire hazards to consumers.

INCIDENTS/INJURIES: None reported.

WHAT TO DO: Stop using the lights immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Call GEM Stores collect at (718) 217-5600 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.