Ethics or lawsuits--the hazardous snow globe

Hallmark has recalled their $100 snow globe for the potential of causing a fire. This is so bizarre. I frankly don't see how this trinket could focus sun rays strong enough and long enough to ignite surrounding combustible items. Nevertheless, Hallmark has recalled all of the snow globes.

"Jumbo snow globes + sunlight = consumer hazard"

Decemeber 23rd, 2008

Reuters

Some 7,000 jumbo-sized snow globes were recalled by Hallmark Cards Inc. because the holiday decorations can act as a magnifying glass when exposed to sunlight and ignite nearby combustible materials, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said on Tuesday.

The snowman-shaped snow globes were sold in October and November at Hallmark Gold Crown stores nationwide for about $100 each.

The consumer agency said Hallmark has received two reports of the snow globes igniting nearby materials but no injuries have been reported.

Consumers who bought the snow globes, which measure 11 by 12 by 17 inches (28 by 30 by 43cm), should immediately remove them from exposure to sunlight and return to a Hallmark Gold Crown store for a full refund.