Lite Tree Top Ornament Warning

Washington, D.C. -- The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns consumers that approximately 200,000 "Lite Tree Top" ornaments imported from Taiwan could overheat and melt when set for non-flashing or non-twinkling operation, and may present a potential fire hazard. At least 25 models of these Christmas tree ornaments have been imported and marketed by a number of domestic companies. These Lite Tree Top ornaments have nine to twelve lights each and include star, angel, halo, or other shapes. They retail for about two to three dollars.

Though no actual fires or injuries have been reported, the Commission is aware of at least six recent consumer complaints where these Lite Tree Top ornaments have overheated, resulting in melting or smoking of the light reflectors.

Consumers have been confused by a contradictory instruction and caution statement found on the rear of the ornament box. The instruction states: "Special Feature: To make this set non twinkling, replace the clear flasher lamp with the constant burning lamp provided extra in the set." This is contradicted by a later statement: "Caution: Do not make this set a steady burn as it may cause overheating and cause the reflector to melt."

The Commission advises consumers who have purchased these Lite Tree Top ornaments to check the package box for the contradictory labeling and, if present, should use the ornament only in the flashing or twinkling mode or stop using it.

Further information on holiday safety may be obtained by calling the Consumer Product Safety Commission's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.

Consumers have been confused by a contradictory instruction and caution statement found on the rear of the ornament box. The instruction states: "Special Feature: To make this set non twinkling, replace the clear flasher lamp with the constant burning lamp provided extra in the set." This is contradicted by a later statement: "Caution: Do not make this set a steady burn as it may cause overheating and cause the reflector to melt."

The Commission advises consumers who have purchased these Lite Tree Top ornaments to check the package box for the contradictory labeling and, if present, should use the ornament only in the flashing or twinkling mode or stop using it.

Though no actual fires or injuries have been reported, the Commission is aware of at least six recent consumer complaints where these Lite Tree Top ornaments have overheated, resulting in melting or smoking of the light reflectors.