Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

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October 19, 2005
Release #06-012

Firm's Hotline: (877) 332-9006 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, Far East Brokers and Consultants, Inc. Announce Safety Warning for Jack 'O Lantern Bucket Candle Holders

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Far East Brokers and Consultants, Inc., of Jacksonville, Fla., is warning consumers about 48,500 Jack 'O Lantern buckets containing eight tea lights. The Halloween decoration is intended for use with a single tea light candle. If all eight candles included with the unit are lit at the same time, it can generate too much heat and pose a fire hazard.

The firm has received three reports of fires when consumers lit the eight candles in the bottom of the bucket decoration. The reports include damage to carpets and a table, other minor property damage and one second degree burn.

The Jack 'O Lantern buckets are tea light candle holders sold in three colors: orange, cream and black. The buckets are about 6.25 inches high and about 7 inches in diameter at the top. They have item number 14609-00 or 14609-02 written on a sticker located on the bottom of the buckets.

Grocery and discount stores nationwide sold these Halloween decorations beginning in July 2005 for between $2 and $3.

Consumers with these decorations are urged to use only a single candle at a time. Also, ensure the wick of the tea light is trimmed according to the instructions on the bottom of the bucket and follow the other burning instructions.

For more information, contact Far East Brokers and Consultants, Inc. toll-free at (877) 332-9006 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.