CPSC Recall in 2002: CPSC and Value City, Schottenstein Stores Announce Recall of Gel Candle Kits

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Value City and Schottenstein stores, of Columbus, Ohio, are voluntarily recalling about 2,300 children's gel candle kits. The Gel Candles kit includes four bags of gel chips in bright colors, wicks, glitter, two glass holders, and two plastic candleholders. The candleholders are in the shapes of a bumblebee and a dragonfly, or a tulip and a daisy. The gel is scented in fruit flavors. The kits have model numbers "3041" or "3042" written on the box. Other writing on the box includes, "Express Ways!™ Gel Candles." "Scent- sational Colored Gel!" and "AGES 8 AND OLDER."

When burned, the gel candle can melt the plastic candleholders included with the kit, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Refund

CPSC has received two reports of consumers claiming the plastic candleholder melted and started a fire. One report involved substantial damage to the consumer's home, and a consumer reportedly suffered burns to his hands and feet. The other report involved minor damage to furniture.

Value City and Schottenstein discount stores nationwide sold these gel candle kits from July 2001 through December 2001 for about $4.