What was recalled
In late November 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving a distinctively designed home decor item sold by Flying Tiger Copenhagen. This specific recall targets candleholders that are shaped to resemble crocodiles, featuring a gold-colored finish that gives them an eye-catching, decorative appearance. These items were marketed not just as functional candle holders, but as statement pieces for home interiors, which likely contributed to their popularity among consumers looking for unique, whimsical decor options.
The affected products are specifically the crocodile-shaped candleholders that measure approximately 7 inches in length and 2 inches in width. A key identifying feature of these items is the design of the candle placement: the candle sits directly inside the crocodile’s wide-open mouth. This aesthetic choice, while visually striking, creates a unique configuration for holding an open flame. Attached to each holder is a hangtag that provides crucial identification details for consumers and investigators. The front of the tag reads "Lysestage - Candle holder," indicating the product's function in multiple languages, while the back of the tag lists the specific Item # 3017653 and Batch # 218377. These numbers are essential for verifying whether a specific unit falls under this recall.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen initiated this voluntary recall on November 19, 2019, after determining that the materials used in the construction of these candleholders posed a serious safety risk. While the provided records do not specify the exact total number of units sold worldwide or within the United States, the scope of the recall is defined by the specific model and batch numbers mentioned above. The products were distributed through Flying Tiger Copenhagen’s retail channels, appealing to shoppers who value distinctive, artistic household goods. However, the decorative appeal was overshadowed by safety concerns that led to the decision to pull these items from the market and issue refunds to affected customers.
If you own a gold-colored crocodile candleholder from Flying Tiger Copenhagen, it is important to check your item against the details provided in this recall. Look closely at the hangtag for the specific Item # 3017653 and Batch # 218377. Even if the tag has been removed, the physical dimensions and the distinctive open-mouth design of the crocodile can help you identify if your candleholder is part of this affected group. Because fire hazards are involved, immediate verification is crucial to ensure the safety of your home.
The hazard, explained
At first glance, a candleholder shaped like a gold-colored crocodile might seem like a charming addition to any home decor. However, the core issue with this specific product lies in its material composition and structural design, which combine to create a serious fire risk that many consumers might not immediately anticipate. The primary hazard is that the candleholders are flammable. This means that the material used to construct the crocodile figure does not inherently resist burning; instead, it can ignite and sustain a flame when exposed to sufficient heat over time.
To understand how this danger manifests, we must look at the mechanics of how candles burn down. When a candle is lit, the flame produces intense heat that melts the wax, allowing it to travel up the wick via capillary action. As the candle burns, the height of the wax decreases. In a well-designed metal or glass holder, the vessel contains the heat and the melting wax safely. However, with these recalled plastic or resin-style crocodile holders, the situation changes as the candle diminishes. Eventually, the flame gets closer to the base of the holder, and critically, the burning wick itself may come into direct contact with the flammable body of the crocodile.
This is where the specific design flaw becomes dangerous. The description notes that the candle holder is situated inside the crocodile's wide-open mouth. As the candle burns down, the flame licks upward and outward. If the candle is left unattended or burned for too long, the heat can transfer directly to the flammable material of the crocodile’s head and body. Once the ignition temperature of that material is reached, it catches fire. This is not just a minor smolder; it is an active fire hazard that can quickly spread to nearby curtains, furniture, or other combustible items in the room.
The CPSC report confirms that this is not merely a theoretical risk. Flying Tiger Copenhagen has received one confirmed report of the candleholder catching fire. While no injuries have been reported from this specific incident, the potential for harm is significant. Fires started by candleholders can escalate rapidly, especially in homes with children or pets who might knock the burning item over, spreading flames to floors and carpets. The danger is compounded by the fact that the holder itself becomes fuel for the fire, making it difficult to extinguish without proper equipment. This is why stopping use immediately is not just a recommendation, but a critical safety step.
It is important to distinguish this hazard from ordinary candle safety issues. Regular candles in standard holders pose risks if knocked over or left too close to flammables. However, this recall highlights a more insidious problem: the container itself is part of the fire. The flammable nature of the crocodile figure means that even if you place the holder on a stable, non-flammable surface like a stone hearth, the object can still ignite from within. This internal ignition source is what makes the product uniquely dangerous compared to traditional candle vessels.
Understanding this mechanism helps clarify why simple vigilance is not enough. You cannot simply "watch it closely" and expect to prevent the material from igniting once the flame reaches the critical point of contact with the flammable body. The physics of heat transfer in this design creates a trap for the unwary user. By recognizing that the holder is designed to burn, you can appreciate why the remedy—immediate cessation of use—is the only safe path forward. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your home safety, ensuring that decorative items do not inadvertently become fire hazards.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about who is most at risk from this specific recall, it is helpful to first understand the nature of the product itself. The Flying Tiger Copenhagen crocodile candleholders are primarily purchased by adults for decorative purposes. These items are designed to sit on mantels, shelves, or tables as aesthetic accents rather than functional tools. Therefore, the primary group exposed to the hazard is anyone who owns one of these gold-colored crocodile figures and actively uses them to hold burning candles. The risk is not inherent in simply owning the item while it is unlit; it emerges specifically during the act of lighting a candle and placing it inside the crocodile’s open mouth, where the flame interacts directly with the flammable material. While any user of the recalled candleholder faces the possibility of a fire, certain demographics face heightened vulnerabilities due to physical or cognitive factors. For elderly individuals, particularly those living alone or with limited mobility, the consequences of a small household fire can be disproportionately severe. If the candleholder catches fire as it burns down, the resulting flame may spread to nearby curtains, rugs, or furniture before it is noticed. An older adult may have slower reaction times or reduced physical strength, making it difficult to quickly extinguish the flame or evacuate safely if the situation escalates. The psychological toll of a home fire incident can also be more traumatic for seniors who are less likely to have robust support systems nearby in an emergency. Children present another significant risk category, though in a different way. While children are unlikely to independently light a candle and place it in the holder without adult supervision, they are often the most vulnerable victims if a fire does start. Young children may not recognize the early signs of a smoldering or flaming object as dangerous. They might approach the crocodile out of curiosity, touching the hot metal or plastic components, leading to burns. Furthermore, their small size and developing cognitive awareness mean they may not understand how to escape a fire quickly or effectively. If the candleholder ignites while children are in the room, the rapid spread of heat and smoke poses an immediate life-threatening danger that adults might take longer to mitigate. Additionally, individuals with visual impairments or those who are easily distracted by other activities (such as reading, cooking, or watching television) may not notice the subtle changes indicating that the candleholder is overheating or catching fire. The hazard described in the CPSC report involves the item catching fire "when the candle burns down," which implies a gradual process. A user who is not actively monitoring the flame might walk away, leaving the burning candle unattended until the flammable crocodile structure itself becomes involved. This lack of immediate awareness transforms a manageable incident into a dangerous one. Therefore, anyone who tends to leave candles burning for extended periods without supervision falls into a higher-risk category for this specific product defect. It is also worth noting that people living in older homes with outdated electrical wiring or those who already have multiple sources of ignition (like other candles, fireplaces, or space heaters) are at greater risk. A single small fire from the crocodile candleholder could interact unpredictably with these existing conditions, potentially overwhelming standard smoke detectors or fire suppression capabilities. The reported incident of one fire, while currently isolated, highlights that the potential for ignition is real and present in every unit distributed. Thus, the "most at risk" are not just those who are physically vulnerable, but anyone who uses the product in a way that allows the flame to contact the flammable material without immediate oversight.How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer service, it is essential to confirm that your specific candleholder matches the exact description of the product involved in this recall. Because decorative home goods can look similar at a glance, relying on general impressions like "it's a gold crocodile" is not enough. You need to verify several specific physical and textual details to ensure you are dealing with the unsafe item. This process requires a bit of patience, but it saves time and prevents unnecessary returns if your product is safe.
First, examine the overall design and dimensions. The recalled items are candleholders shaped like a crocodile, finished in a gold color. They measure approximately 7 inches in length and 2 inches in width. A key identifying feature is how the candle is held: the candle sits inside the crocodile's wide-open mouth. If your item holds the candle differently, such as on top or via a hook mechanism, it is likely not part of this specific recall.
Next, look closely for attached documentation, specifically the hangtag that would have been present when you purchased the item. This tag is crucial for identification. On the front of the tag, you should see the text "Lysestage - Candle holder." However, the most critical information is located on the back of this same tag. You must find the specific Item number and Batch number printed there.
To confirm a match, verify that the back of the hangtag displays the following exact codes:
- Item #: 3017653
- Batch #: 218377
If your candleholder does not have a hangtag, check the bottom or underside of the crocodile's body for any embossed or printed labels. Sometimes manufacturers imprint these numbers directly onto the product itself if the tag has been removed over time. If you cannot find either the hangtag with these specific codes or the numbers stamped on the base, your item is likely not part of this recall.
Finally, consider where and when you purchased the item. This recall pertains to products sold by Flying Tiger Copenhagen. While the recall notice does not list every store location, it is safe to assume these items were available through their physical retail stores and their online shop during the period leading up to the recall announcement on November 19, 2019. If you bought a gold crocodile candleholder from a different retailer or brand, it is not covered by this specific CPSC notice. When in doubt, having your receipt and the item numbers ready will help Flying Tiger Copenhagen confirm your eligibility for a refund quickly.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Flying Tiger Copenhagen crocodile candleholders, your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of your home and family by removing the hazard from your living space. The recall notice issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on November 19, 2019, is clear: you must stop using these items right away. Do not wait for the candle to burn down further or hope that the risk will diminish over time. Because the product is flammable and has already been linked to at least one fire incident, every moment it remains lit or even unlit but accessible poses a potential danger. The first and most critical step is to physically remove the candleholder from your home. If you have stored it in a closet, attic, or garage, retrieve it carefully. If it is currently in use, extinguish any candles immediately and place the holder outside your living area, away from curtains, furniture, or other combustible materials, until you can arrange for its return. Once the item is safely out of your daily environment, your next step is to initiate the remedy process with Flying Tiger Copenhagen. The company has committed to providing a full refund to all affected consumers, which means you do not need to negotiate or argue for compensation. To claim this refund, you will need to contact their customer service team directly. You can reach them by calling their toll-free number at 844-350-0560. It is important to note their hours of operation; they are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or find it easier to document your request, you may also email them at info.us@flyingtiger.com. When you contact them, be prepared to provide details about the product to verify that it is part of this specific recall batch. To ensure your refund is processed correctly and quickly, you will need to identify your item precisely. The recall applies specifically to gold-colored crocodile-shaped candleholders measuring 7 inches long by 2 inches wide, where the candle sits in the crocodile's open mouth. Crucially, you must check the hangtag attached to the holder. The tag should read "Lysestage - Candle holder" on the front, and on the back, it must display Item # 3017653 and Batch # 218377. If your item matches these specifications, you are definitely covered by this recall. If you cannot find the hangtag or if the batch number differs, it is still worth contacting Flying Tiger Copenhagen to verify whether your specific unit is included in the safety notice. You can also visit their website at www.flyingtiger.com and click on "product information" at the bottom of the page for additional guidance. By following these steps—stopping use, securing the item, verifying its identity, and contacting the manufacturer—you are taking responsible action to protect your household from fire hazards while recovering your financial investment.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When you discover that a beloved home decor item is part of a safety recall, the most important step is knowing exactly how to resolve the issue without hassle. In this specific case involving Flying Tiger Copenhagen’s crocodile-shaped candleholders, the company has established a clear and consumer-friendly remedy: a full refund. It is crucial to understand right away that there is no option for repair or replacement of the candleholder itself. Because the fundamental design flaw involves the material being flammable and catching fire as the candle burns down, fixing the product is not a viable safety solution. The only way to eliminate the risk entirely is to remove the hazardous item from your home and receive your money back.
To initiate this process, you will need to contact Flying Tiger Copenhagen directly. They have set up dedicated channels to handle these requests efficiently. You can reach their customer support team by calling their toll-free number at 844-350-0560. Please note that these lines are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or want to keep a digital record of your inquiry, you may also send an email to info.us@flyingtiger.com. Both methods are officially recognized by the manufacturer as valid ways to start your refund claim.
In addition to calling or emailing, Flying Tiger Copenhagen offers an online pathway for those who prefer navigating the web first. You can visit their website at www.flyingtiger.com. Once there, look toward the bottom of the homepage where you will find a section labeled "product information." Clicking on this link will direct you to the necessary resources to learn more about the recall and likely provide further instructions or forms for processing your refund claim. This digital route is particularly useful if you need to verify details after business hours or want to review the terms before speaking with an agent.
Why does the remedy focus solely on a refund? The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the manufacturer recognize that these candleholders pose a genuine fire hazard. Since the item cannot be safely modified to prevent ignition, returning it for a full refund is the standard and appropriate corrective action. This approach ensures you are not left with a dangerous product while waiting for parts or instructions on how to "fix" an inherently unsafe design. By choosing a refund, Flying Tiger Copenhagen acknowledges that the product failed to meet basic safety expectations, and they are committed to making you whole financially so you can replace it with a safer alternative.
When you contact them, whether by phone, email, or online, be prepared to provide specific details to speed up your claim. Recall notices like this one often require proof that you own the specific recalled batch. If you still have the product, locate the hangtag attached to it. The tag should clearly read "Lysestage - Candle holder" on the front. On the back, it will list the Item # as 3017653 and the Batch # as 218377. Having this batch number ready when you call or email will help customer service verify your unit quickly and process your refund without unnecessary delays. While the recall facts do not specify if you must return the physical candleholder to receive the money, it is common practice for safety recalls to require the return of the hazardous item to prevent it from being resold or used elsewhere. Therefore, have your packaging ready in case they instruct you to ship the crocodile holder back at their expense.
Remember, this recall was issued on November 19, 2019, so if you are still holding onto this item, do not wait. The safety risk does not diminish over time; in fact, older units may have degraded materials that are even more susceptible to ignition. By taking the step to contact Flying Tiger Copenhagen today, you are not only securing your refund but also actively protecting your home and family from a potential fire. The process is designed to be straightforward, and the company has provided multiple accessible ways to ensure you get your money back safely and efficiently.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to look at a decorative item like the Flying Tiger Copenhagen crocodile candleholder and see only its novelty. The gold finish, the wide-open mouth design, and the playful aesthetic make it a charming addition to a mantel or coffee table. However, ignoring the recall notice transforms this harmless-looking decor into a genuine danger. The core issue is not just that the item might burn; it is that the material itself is flammable. When you continue to use these candleholders past the point of safety, you are essentially leaving a slow-burning fuse in your home. As the candle inside the crocodile’s mouth burns down, the wax pool shrinks and the flame gets closer to the sides of the holder. Because the product is made from materials that catch fire easily, the heat can ignite the body of the crocodile itself. This is not a theoretical risk; it is a documented physical reality of the product's construction.
The consequences of ignoring this warning extend far beyond the loss of a small decorative object. Once the candleholder ignites, the fire can spread rapidly to nearby combustible materials. If the crocodile is sitting on a wooden table, near a curtain, or close to other holiday decorations, that initial spark can quickly become a house fire. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlights that there has already been at least one confirmed report of the candleholder catching fire. While no injuries have been reported in this specific instance, the potential for severe harm is significant. Fires start small and silent, often when homeowners are asleep or distracted. By continuing to use the recalled item, you are gambling with your property and, more importantly, the safety of your family and neighbors.
There is also a secondary risk that is often overlooked: smoke inhalation. Even if the fire is contained within the candleholder, burning plastic or treated materials can release toxic fumes into your home’s air supply. This is particularly dangerous in bedrooms or living areas where people spend extended periods of time. The initial report confirms that the hazard is real and active. Ignoring it does not make the flammability disappear; it only removes the safety net that the manufacturer has offered you. You are choosing to maintain a known hazard in your environment rather than accepting the easy, full refund that is available to you. The cost of ignoring this recall is potentially catastrophic, while the cost of acting is simply making a phone call or sending an email.
- Rapid Fire Spread: Flammable materials can ignite quickly, turning a small candle flame into a large fire in minutes.
- Toxic Smoke: Burning the specific materials used in this holder may release harmful chemicals into your home’s air.
- Property Damage: A fire started by a decorative item can destroy furniture, walls, and personal belongings.
Please do not wait for a second incident to occur. The fact that there has been one report means the defect is active and dangerous. Your safety is worth more than keeping a novelty item on your shelf. Take the step to stop using it immediately and contact Flying Tiger Copenhagen to get your money back. It is a simple action that eliminates a serious risk from your home.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a particular manufacturing flaw in gold-colored crocodile candleholders, the underlying risk of open-flame decor is universal. Many consumers overlook how quickly a simple decorative item can become a fire hazard if placed carelessly. The most critical rule for any candle or flame-based product is distance. Keep all burning candles at least one foot away from anything that can burn, including curtains, bedding, paper, and yes, even flammable materials like certain plastics or treated woods found in decorative holders. Heat rises, so the danger isn't just at the base but where the flame touches the air around it. Always place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface that is level and out of high-traffic areas to prevent accidental bumps from knocking it over.
Another often-missed safety step is vigilance regarding the burn-down process. Candles left unattended until they are nearly empty pose a significant risk because the flame gets closer to the container's rim, which may not be designed to hold extreme heat indefinitely. This is especially true for decorative holders that are not specifically rated for candle use. Never leave a burning candle in an unoccupied room or while you are sleeping. If you need ambiance for a long period, consider switching to high-quality LED candles that mimic the flicker of real wax without any open flame. They offer the same aesthetic warmth with zero fire risk.
Beyond immediate usage habits, proactive home safety measures provide a vital layer of protection. Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside each sleeping area. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. A functioning alarm can give you the crucial seconds needed to evacuate if a fire does start. Additionally, keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and near any fireplace or candle-heavy display areas. Knowing how to use it—remembering the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side—is just as important as having one on hand.
Finally, stay informed about product safety through official channels. Regularly check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or sign up for their email alerts. Manufacturers issue recalls not to inconvenience you, but because they have identified a risk that could lead to injury or property damage. By staying aware and practicing mindful habits with any flammable decor, you protect your home and loved ones from preventable accidents. Safe living is about building small, consistent habits that turn potential dangers into manageable routine checks.