Christmas Tree Light Sets (New York Merchandise) – Safety Concern (1977)

Check Your Product

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

Reason for Recall

As stated by CPSC

Christmas Light Sets Recalled by New York Merchandise NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 22, 1977 Release # 77-130 Christmas Light Sets Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 22) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with New York Merchandise Co., Inc., today announced that New York Merchandise will voluntarily stop sale of their 15-bulb "Renown" Christmas tree light sets, model number 222/15B, indoor only. The Christmas light sets, retail for $4.50-$5, are packaged in a white and red cardboard box with a clear cellophane window, and were distributed nationwide. The bulb sockets in these sets may contain incorrectly placed metal electrical contacts that may create a potential fire hazard by shorting out the bulb and overheating the wires. The company urges consumers who have purchased one of these light sets to carefully examine the inside of each socket, noting the placement of the two metal electrical contacts. If correctly constructed, one metal contact is mounted horizontally across the inside base of the socket and the other stands vertically along the inside wall. If both contacts are in the vertical position, the set is defective and should not be used. Consumers can return a defective set to their dealer for a full refund or replacement. Anyone wishing additional information should write to New York Merchandise Co., 32 W. 23rd St., New York, N.Y. 10010, or call the company at 212/675-3500.

Recommended Action

Per CPSC guidance

The CPSC advises consumers to stop using the product. Contact the manufacturer or return the product to the place of purchase.