On Tuesday, November 14, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced seven new recalls of self-balancing scooters, commonly called hoverboards. In addition, the agency again warned against LayZ Board products that have been linked to at least two fires, one of them fatal.

This is the second round of recalls of hoverboards. In July 2016, CPSC recalled 10 hoverboards for fire and explosion/overheating risks. In May 2017, the CPSC issued its initial warning against the LayZ Board products after the house fire that killed two young girls. Throughout 2016 and 2017 there were additional individual hoverboard recalls, all of which are listed on the Hoverboard Information Page.

Questions? Here are some answers:

Q: I have a recalled hoverboard, what do I do?

A: Check the recall notice at CPSC and follow the instructions for your particular unit.

Q: Are any hoverboards safe to use?

A: If your hoverboard was purchased after January 2016 and carries the UL 2272 standard mark, it has been tested to be safe from overheating and fire risks. You still need to wear protective gear and use safely to avoid other injuries from falls or collisions.

Q: My hoverboard says its battery is UL tested – is that enough?

A: No, individual components meeting UL standards is not the same as the unit being tested to UL 2272. Only UL 2272 ensures the components will work together without risk of fire.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Q: I have a LayZ board – can I get a refund?

A: Unfortunately, CPSC has been unable to issue a recall on this product because there is not a willing manufacturer. But the dangers of this particular device are well known after two serious fires, so do not use or keep this product on your property. You can attempt to get the retailer to refund your money.

Q: What are the safety steps I should follow, even with a non-recalled hoverboard?

A: Always use the charger that came with the product and never charge unattended or overnight. See CPSC’s one page fact sheet for more safety tips that you can use and share.

Q: My hoverboard isn’t on either list of recalled products, but has overheated. What do I do?

A: Report the product at SaferProducts.gov. Stop using it and do not store in your house. Return to retailer if possible.

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