Dangerous Menorah Poses Risk of Fire, Prompting Nationwide Recall
Target has issued a recall of approximately 4,400 Spritz™ Taper Resin Hanukkah Dino Menorahs after multiple reports of the product catching fire while in use. The recall, announced on February 13, 2025, was prompted by at least 58 documented incidents of the menorahs scorching, charring, melting, or igniting. Although no injuries have been reported, the potential danger of these menorahs catching fire while holding lit candles creates a serious risk for consumers.
The menorahs were sold exclusively at Target stores and online between October 2024 and January 2025 for around $15. Manufactured in China and imported by Target Corporation, the menorahs are blue, made of polymer resin, and designed to hold nine tapered candles in metal candle cups placed along the back of a dinosaur figure. Each menorah has the model number “240-14-1380” printed on the hang tag around the dinosaur’s neck.
Consumers who purchased these menorahs have been advised to stop using them immediately. Target is offering full refunds either in the form of a Target gift card or via the original payment method. Customers can return the menorahs to any Target store or contact the company to receive a prepaid return label for mail-in returns.
How the Recalled Menorah Poses a Safety Risk
Menorahs are traditionally used to hold candles during Hanukkah, an eight-day Jewish holiday that involves the lighting of candles to commemorate the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Because menorahs are meant to hold open flames for extended periods, safety is a critical concern in their design.
The issue with the Spritz Dino Menorah appears to stem from its material composition and construction. Polymer resin is a flammable material that can become unstable when exposed to direct heat. While the menorah features metal candle cups designed to hold the lit candles, the reports of scorching and melting suggest that the heat generated by the candles is enough to compromise the resin structure. In some cases, this defect has led to fires, posing an immediate threat to households using the menorah during Hanukkah celebrations.
The risk is particularly alarming because many people place menorahs near flammable objects such as curtains, tablecloths, or decorative items. A menorah that catches fire unexpectedly could easily spread flames to surrounding areas, potentially leading to severe property damage, burn injuries, or even fatalities.
Legal Rights of Consumers Affected by the Defective Menorah
Consumers who purchased and used the recalled menorah may have legal grounds to seek compensation if they suffered property damage or injuries due to the defect. Product liability laws hold manufacturers and retailers accountable when a product is unsafe and causes harm.
For a successful product liability claim, a consumer must demonstrate that the product was defective, that the defect caused harm, and that they used the product as intended. In this case, the menorah’s inability to withstand the heat from burning candles could be considered a design or manufacturing defect. Since Target imported and sold the product, the company could be held liable for damages resulting from fires caused by the menorah’s unsafe design.
Victims seeking compensation would need to provide evidence such as receipts, photographs of the damage, witness statements, and any reports they filed regarding the incident. Legal action against Target could result in financial recovery for losses, including repair costs, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
The Lawsuit Process and the Importance of Legal Representation
Filing a product liability lawsuit involves several legal steps, and consumers harmed by the recalled menorah would need to follow a structured process to seek justice. The first step is gathering evidence to support the claim, which may include purchase receipts, photos of the menorah’s damage, or reports from fire investigators if property damage occurred.
After evidence is collected, a legal complaint is filed against Target, detailing the allegations of negligence and product liability. Once the lawsuit is initiated, both parties enter the discovery phase, where they exchange information and documents. During this stage, attorneys may present expert testimony about the menorah’s defect and how it created a dangerous situation for consumers.
Many product liability cases are resolved through settlements, where the retailer or manufacturer agrees to compensate the victim without going to trial. However, if Target disputes liability, the case could proceed to court, where a judge or jury would determine whether the company is responsible for damages.
Having an attorney is crucial at every stage of the legal process. Corporations like Target have legal teams dedicated to defending against product liability claims, making it difficult for individuals to succeed without strong legal representation. An attorney can build a case by gathering evidence, negotiating settlements, and arguing in court if necessary. Without proper legal guidance, victims may struggle to prove liability or recover fair compensation for their losses.
Compensation for Victims of the Recalled Menorah
Consumers affected by fires caused by the defective menorah may be eligible to recover several types of damages. Compensation may cover property damage, such as repairs to homes or replacement of items destroyed in a fire. If an individual suffered burns or other injuries, medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages from time off work could be included in the claim.
Victims may also seek compensation for emotional distress caused by the fire, as well as punitive damages in cases where the company’s negligence is considered particularly severe. Punitive damages are awarded to discourage companies from selling unsafe products in the future.
If you or a loved one have suffered property damage or injuries due to the recalled Spritz Dino Menorah, you may have legal options to recover compensation. Parker Waichman LLP, a national product liability law firm, is dedicated to helping victims hold negligent companies accountable.
Contact Parker Waichman LLP For a Free Case Review
Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and learn about your rights. Regardless of where your injury occurred, our national product injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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