The Holidays are here! Around the country, people are beginning to decorate their homes and trim the Christmas Tree. Many Americans have fond memories of trimming the tree with their families. No one would ever think this time-honored tradition could threaten their health.
Neither did Juanita Hargas, a Texas woman who recently purchased a Christmas Tree from Wal-Mart. While setting it up, she was shocked to find a warning label which stated that the product contains dangerous amounts of lead, which can cause cancer. Understandably, she was outraged and so are we. For more, check out this story from WJBF News
Open the box...and a Christmas surprise...a Texas woman finds a warning about cancer!Juanita Hargas, "I was just angry, just angry, because cancer is an ugly thing."
Juanita Hirgas bought this pre-lit tree at Wal-Mart...she was putting it together...when she came across a tag she thought was just an electrical warning.
Hirgas, "But then I saw the word cancer...I thought, 'I better read this.'"
The warning reads: Caution...Cancer...lead...wash hands..."The warning lets consumers know about hazardous chemicals...but businesses aren't required to put it on their labels.
We contacted Wal-Mart twice...and as of our deadline...we heard no response.
Hirgas, "I took it back, I did not want that tree in my house, and risk exposing my family and myself to lead."
Juanita, herself, is in remission from cancer. What's worse, she was putting up this tree with her 2-year-old granddaughter.
Hirgas, "To me, it's like putting a snake in the same room with you and saying, 'well, it may bite you, it may not.'"
The product is made in China...and with the several recent recalls of Chinese-made products containing lead...Juanita has made up her mind.
Hirgas, "I'm not going to buy anything made from China."
Posted by James - November 30, 2007 11:17 AM - Hard to Believe