- A Christmas tree light controller has been recalled after numerous reports of overheating and one fire.
A popular Christmas tree light controller, which was sold at a number of national retailers, is being recalled due to a possible fire hazard.
More than 44,000 controllers from Mr. Christmas were affected by the recall. They were largely sold at Walmart, Target and Cracker Barrel stores between July and November for prices ranging from $25 to $40.
The decorative controllers are wireless receivers that plug into outlets and let people turn their Christmas tree lights on and off via a giant lever or switch. To date, the Consumer Product Safety Commission says it has received 10 reports of overheating, including one that resulted in a fire. No injuries have been reported.
Consumers are urged to stop using the controllers immediately and return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Controllers sold at Cracker Barrel and Walmart have the words “Christmas Light Controller” on their faceplates and resemble peppermint candies with green, red, and white stripes, with a candy cane lever used to turn lights on and off.
The Target controllers were sold under the Wondershop brand and are imprinted with the words “Tree Lighting Switch.” They’re shaped like a red square switch box, with green, white, and red balls on the side and a red-and-white North Pole marker as the switch.
Light controllers from the company sold before this year are no impacted by the recall. Just those with model numbers 39611, 39612 or 39630.