Holiday cheer turns to fear as popular Christmas toys and decorations pose fire hazards, prompting nationwide recalls.
You might want to check the toys under your Christmas tree!
At a Glance
- Yoto Inc. recalls 251,165 “Yoto Mini” speakers in the U.S. due to battery overheating risks
- Mr. Christmas LLC recalls 44,600 wireless tree light controllers for fire hazard
- Products were sold at major retailers including Walmart, Target, and Cracker Barrel
- An average of 160 Christmas decorating-related injuries occur daily during the holiday season
- Authorities warn against counterfeit items posing significant safety risks
Toy Speakers Pose Burning Risk to Children
As families prepare for the holiday season, a serious safety concern has emerged – and you should check the presents under your tree.
Manufacturer Yoto Inc. has issued a recall for approximately 251,165 “Yoto Mini” speakers in the United States, with an additional 19,000 units affected in Canada. These speakers, designed for children aged 3-12, contain lithium-ion batteries that can overheat, presenting a significant fire hazard.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has taken swift action, emphasizing the severity of the situation. In response to this threat, Yoto is offering a free battery replacement kit to all affected customers. Parents and guardians are strongly advised to take advantage of this offer to ensure their children’s safety.
Christmas Light Controllers: A Hidden Danger
The holiday hazards don’t stop at toys. Mr. Christmas LLC has recalled approximately 44,600 wireless decorative tree light controllers due to overheating and fire risks. These controllers, sold under various names including “Tree Lighting Switch” and “Christmas Light Controller,” were widely distributed at popular retailers such as Cracker Barrel, Walmart, and Target between July and November 2024.
The CPSC has announced a ‘Fast Track Recall’ for these devices, urging consumers to immediately cease use and return them for a full refund. The recall affects specific models, including those shaped like peppermint candy with a candy cane lever (sold at Walmart and Cracker Barrel) and square switch boxes with festive colored balls (sold under the Wondershop™ brand at Target).
These recalls highlight a larger issue of holiday-related safety concerns. The CPSC reports an alarming average of 160 Christmas decorating-related injuries daily during the festive season. Last year alone, 14,900 injuries were treated in emergency departments, underscoring the need for increased vigilance.
Toy-related injuries are particularly concerning, with 154,700 emergency department visits and 10 reported deaths last year. Non-motorized scooters topped the list of toy-related injuries, serving as a stark reminder that even seemingly harmless gifts can pose significant risks.
