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.
