What was recalled
In late November 2019, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving holiday home decor produced by Mark Feldstein & Associates Inc. Specifically, the agency targeted a particular line of festive decorations known as Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lanterns. These items are designed to bring a touch of autumnal cheer to porches, living rooms, or mantels, but they were found to contain a serious safety defect that necessitated their immediate removal from consumer homes. The recall is not limited to just one size or variant; it encompasses the specific 12-inch model of these stacked gourd decorations, which were marketed as hand-painted resin pieces intended for decorative display.
To help you identify whether your specific decoration falls under this recall notice, it is important to look closely at the physical attributes and labeling of the item. The recalled product is a 12-inch tall Jack-O-Lantern constructed from resin that has been hand-painted to resemble stacked gourds. Unlike many electrical decorations that plug directly into a wall outlet, this particular model is battery-operated. It relies on three AAA batteries to power a set of LED string lights located inside the product, which are meant to illuminate the Jack-O-Lantern’s face during the evening hours. The presence of these internal lights is key to its function but also central to the safety concerns raised by the manufacturer.
If you are trying to verify if your item is part of this specific recall, you should examine the packaging and any attached tags for precise identifying information. The recalled units will have a hang tag and a label on the box that clearly displays the UPC code 789683062481. Additionally, the model number S1915D12 is printed on these labels, along with the manufacturer’s name, Mark Feldstein & Associates Inc. These details are your primary tools for confirmation. It is worth noting that while the provided recall facts do not specify the exact quantity of units sold or the specific retail stores where they were distributed, the presence of these model numbers and UPC codes serves as the definitive identifier for the affected inventory. If you own a Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lantern with these markings, it is considered part of this recall regardless of when or where it was originally purchased.
The hazard, explained
At first glance, the Mark Feldstein & Associates Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lantern decoration appears to be a harmless, festive addition to any autumn display. It is designed to be charming and atmospheric, featuring hand-painted resin gourds that glow softly from within. However, beneath this decorative exterior lies a significant electrical risk that consumers need to understand clearly. The core of the problem is not with the resin or the paint, but with the internal wiring of the battery-operated LED string lights. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the specific mechanism of failure involves the electrical components overheating. When these tiny wires become too hot, they can begin to spark or even ignite the surrounding materials, turning a cheerful holiday prop into a serious fire hazard.
To understand why this happens, it helps to look at how small decorative lights function. These items are powered by three AAA batteries, which provide a low-voltage direct current. While LED bulbs themselves run relatively cool, the wires that carry electricity from the battery pack to the lights can become problematic if they are not properly insulated or if they are bundled too tightly inside the hollow resin gourds. When electrical current flows through a wire, it generates heat. In most well-designed products, this heat dissipates safely into the air. However, in confined spaces like the interior of a stacked gourd decoration, heat can get trapped. If the wiring is of insufficient gauge or if there are points of high resistance where wires rub against each other or the resin shell, the temperature can rise rapidly beyond safe limits.
Once the insulation on these internal wires degrades due to excessive heat, it can fail completely. This failure often manifests as a spark—a small, visible electrical discharge that jumps across the gap created by the damaged insulation. In an environment filled with dry, potentially flammable materials like dried plant matter, dust, or even the resin itself if it is combustible, a single spark can be enough to start a fire. The recall notice confirms that this is not just a theoretical risk; the manufacturer has received four separate reports of these Jack-O-Lanterns smoking or catching fire. While no injuries or property damage have been reported in these specific incidents, the potential for harm is real and immediate.
This type of hazard is particularly dangerous because it often occurs without warning. You might turn on the decoration for a evening display, expecting a gentle glow, only to find smoke emerging from the base or sides hours later. The confined nature of the product means that if a fire does start, it can grow quickly before anyone notices, especially if the decoration is placed near curtains, dry leaves, or other combustible decor. Understanding this physical process—overheating due to trapped heat and poor insulation leading to sparks—is crucial for recognizing why immediate action is necessary. It is not a minor defect; it is an active ignition source hidden inside what looks like a safe, passive object.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about who is most at risk from the recalled Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lantern decorations by Mark Feldstein & Associates, we have to look at both the nature of the product and the specific way the failure occurs. This recall centers on a fire hazard caused by internal wiring overheating, sparking, or igniting. While any household with this item faces potential danger, certain groups are particularly vulnerable because they may be more likely to own these items, use them in ways that exacerbate the risk, or have less ability to react quickly if a problem arises.
First and foremost, homeowners who decorate their interiors or immediate entryways for the Halloween season are the primary group at risk. These decorations are designed to be placed indoors, often on tables, mantels, or near doorways where flammable materials like curtains, rugs, or holiday greenery might be nearby. The hazard is not just the fire itself, but its location. If a Jack-O-Lantern begins to smoke or catch fire while sitting on a wooden coffee table or next to a dry wreath, the proximity to other combustible items can cause a small electrical incident to escalate into a home fire rapidly. People who use these decorations as part of elaborate, multi-piece indoor displays are at higher risk because they may be less aware of the specific condition of one item within a larger arrangement.
Children and elderly individuals also face heightened vulnerability, though for different reasons. Children might be drawn to the glowing eyes or festive design of the 12-inch resin gourd, potentially moving it closer to curtains or placing it on unstable surfaces where it could tip over onto heat sources or flammable materials. Furthermore, young children may not recognize the early warning signs of an electrical failure, such as a faint buzzing sound or a slight warm smell, until smoke is already visible. For elderly individuals, reaction times may be slower, and mobility issues could make evacuating quickly more difficult if a fire starts in a familiar room they frequent. The CPSC notes that while no injuries have been reported yet, the potential for harm is significant when electrical faults occur in living spaces where people spend their evenings.
Additionally, anyone who leaves these decorations unattended or running overnight is at increased risk. The recall specifies that the string light wiring inside can overheat. Electrical components that are left on for extended periods, especially those powered by batteries that may leak or corrode over time, require monitoring. If you are someone who tends to leave holiday lights on all night for ambiance or security, this specific defect becomes much more dangerous because there is no one present to notice the initial sparks or smoke before a fire can take hold. It is crucial to remember that this risk applies to everyone who owns the item with UPC code 789683062481 and model number S1915D12, regardless of age, but those in high-traffic or flammable-rich environments should treat it as an immediate priority to remove from their homes.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you bought a festive decoration during the holiday season, it is important to pause and check your belongings carefully. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) targets specific Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lantern decorations manufactured by Mark Feldstein & Associates. Because these items are often sold as seasonal decor, they might be tucked away in a closet or stored on a shelf after the holidays have passed. Identifying whether your specific item is part of this recall requires looking at several key details printed directly on the product and its packaging.
First, examine the physical decoration itself. The recalled model is a 12-inch Jack-O-Lantern made from hand-painted resin. It is designed to look like a stacked gourd, featuring battery-operated LED string lights inside. If you have a plastic pumpkin, a different size, or one that plugs into a wall outlet rather than using batteries, it is likely not part of this specific recall. However, if you have a resin jack-o-lantern lit by internal lights, proceed to the next step.
The most reliable way to confirm if your item is affected is to look for the identification labels. You should find a hang tag attached to the decoration and a label on the original box. On both of these surfaces, you need to verify three critical pieces of information. First, check for the UPC code, which must be 789683062481. Second, look for the model number, which is S1915D12. Finally, ensure that the manufacturer name "Mark Feldstein & Associates Inc." is printed clearly on the tag or box. If any of these details do not match exactly, your item may be safe, but if they do match, you must stop using it immediately.
If you no longer have the original box, rely on the hang tag attached to the product itself. These tags are usually made of cardstock and may be tied to the top or side of the resin gourd. If the tag has been lost, check inside the base of the decoration or near the battery compartment for any printed stickers. Remember that this recall was announced on November 26, 2019, so any items purchased before or around that time are more likely to be included. Do not guess based on appearance alone; the model number and UPC code are the only definitive ways to know if your decoration is part of this safety alert.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lantern decoration from Mark Feldstein & Associates, your immediate priority is safety above all else. The recall notice clearly states that the string light wiring inside these specific decorations can overheat, spark, or even ignite, creating a genuine fire hazard. Therefore, the very first and most critical step you must take is to immediately stop using the product. Do not wait for the holidays to end or try to monitor it while it is plugged in or operating. Simply unplug any electrical components if applicable (though these are battery-operated) and remove the batteries right away. Place the item in a safe, non-flammable location, such as outside your home or in a metal container, until you can arrange for its return. This immediate cessation of use is the only way to ensure that the potential for overheating does not result in smoke or fire within your living space. Once you have secured the area and stopped using the decoration, you need to initiate the remedy process provided by the manufacturer. Mark Feldstein & Associates has committed to providing a full refund for these items, which is a significant benefit to consumers who purchased them. To claim this refund, you must contact the company directly. You can reach their consumer support team by calling 800-755-6504. Their representatives are available from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. When you call, have your product ready so you can verify the details if necessary. Alternatively, you may choose to contact them via email at Sales@MFAgifts.com. If you prefer to handle this online, visit www.MFAgifts.com and look for the "Recall Information" button on the homepage. This digital route is often convenient for documenting your communication or finding specific return instructions that may be posted there. As you prepare to return the item, keep in mind that four reports of these Jack-O-Lanterns smoking or catching fire have been received by the firm, though no injuries or property damage have been reported so far. This context underscores why following the steps precisely is important for your peace of mind and safety. When you contact Mark Feldstein & Associates, they will guide you through the return shipping process. Ensure you keep any tracking numbers or confirmation emails for your records until the refund is fully processed in your bank account or credit card statement. Do not dispose of the product prematurely; you may need to show it or ship it back as part of the refund validation. By taking these calm, methodical steps, you resolve the issue efficiently while prioritizing the well-being of your household.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lantern decorations from Mark Feldstein & Associates, your primary and most straightforward option is to seek a full refund. It is important to understand that this recall does not offer a repair kit, a replacement bulb, or a store credit. The manufacturer has determined that the internal wiring issue—a potential for overheating, sparking, or ignition—is inherent to the product’s design in its current form and cannot be safely fixed by the consumer. Therefore, the remedy is strictly financial: you are entitled to get your money back, provided you follow the specific steps outlined below.
To initiate this process, you must contact Mark Feldstein & Associates directly. Do not attempt to return the item to the store where you purchased it unless they have explicitly instructed you to do so; the company has established a dedicated channel for these recall claims. You can reach their customer support team by calling 800-755-6504. Their representatives are available to assist you from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written correspondence or need to send documentation of your purchase, you may also email them directly at Sales@MFAgifts.com.
Alternatively, if you find it difficult to reach the phone lines during business hours, you can visit their official website at www.MFAgifts.com. Once there, look for and click on the "Recall Information" button located on the homepage. This section of the site should provide further details on how to process your claim. It is advisable to have your original proof of purchase ready when you contact them, such as a receipt or order confirmation number, although the company may also accept other forms of verification depending on their specific internal protocols.
Why is a refund the only option here? The hazard involves the string light wiring inside the resin Jack-O-Lanterns. Because these lights are powered by three AAA batteries and are embedded within a decorative item that can accumulate heat, the risk of fire is serious enough that partial fixes are not considered adequate. The four reported incidents of smoking or catching fire underscore the severity of this defect. By issuing full refunds, Mark Feldstein & Associates is ensuring that you remove the hazard from your home entirely rather than attempting to mitigate a dangerous electrical fault.
Please act promptly. While no injuries have been reported yet, the potential for property damage exists. Do not wait until the holiday season ends to address this. Once you have contacted the company and received confirmation of your refund, dispose of the defective unit safely or destroy it to ensure no one else uses it. Your safety and peace of mind are worth the few minutes it takes to make that call or send that email.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to pull the plug on a seasonal decoration that still looks festive and hasn’t given you any trouble yet. These Stacked Gourd Jack-O-Lanterns are charming, hand-painted resin pieces designed to bring warmth and cheer to your porch or living room for years to come. However, ignoring this recall carries risks that go far beyond simply wasting a few dollars on a defective item. The core issue here is not just that the lights might stop working; it is that the electrical components inside are compromised in a way that creates an active, unpredictable danger.
The hazard identified by the CPSC and Mark Feldstein & Associates is specifically related to the string light wiring. When wiring overheats, sparks, or ignites, it means the electrical current is no longer being contained safely within its intended path. In a standard lamp or holiday light strand, this might just mean a burnt-out bulb or a tripped circuit breaker. But inside these decorations, that heat has nowhere to go but into the surrounding materials. The jack-o-lanterns are made of resin, which is generally durable, but once the internal temperature rises high enough due to electrical faults, it can degrade the insulation on the wires further or even catch fire itself. This is not a theoretical risk; the manufacturer has already received four separate reports of these units smoking or catching fire. While no injuries or property damage have been reported in those specific instances, each report is a warning sign that the failure mode is real and repeatable.
If you choose to continue using the recalled items, you are essentially gambling with your home’s safety. Fire does not always start with a large, roaring blaze. It often begins with smoke, which can be thick and toxic, filling a room before you even realize there is a problem. If the wiring ignites the resin or any nearby decorations, curtains, or furniture, that small spark can escalate rapidly. Even if you have working smoke detectors, the time it takes for the alarm to sound and for you to react is precious. By ignoring the recall, you are leaving an unaddressed electrical fault in your home, potentially near flammable materials like drywall, wood, or fabric.
Furthermore, consider the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is safe. Every time you see those glowing jack-o-lanterns, you should feel joy, not anxiety wondering if they are about to fail. The remedy offered—a full refund—is straightforward and generous, removing any financial barrier to doing the right thing. Choosing not to act doesn’t make the hazard disappear; it only leaves you vulnerable to a potential emergency that could have been easily prevented by simply stopping use and contacting the manufacturer. The convenience of keeping them lit for one more night is not worth the risk of starting a house fire or exposing your family to smoke inhalation.