Hobbico Inc. Recalls Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopters Due to Fire Hazard
Recall 08364 · Aug 19, 2008 · Hobbico Inc.
11,000
units affected
11,000
units affected
Facts
- Recall number
- 08364
- Date
- Aug 19, 2008
- Company
- Hobbico Inc.
- Units affected
- 11,000
- Product
- Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopter Kits
- Product type
- Adapter/Power Supply/Charger/Battery
- Hazard
- Fire
The product
This recall involves the Electrifly lithium-polymer batteries (part #GPMP0401) sold individually or with the Heli-Max Axe CP-L radio-controlled helicopter kits. The kit includes a 23-inch long plastic helicopter, a battery, a radio transmitter, a balance charger, a car adapter, an AC wall adapter, decals that read "HMX", "AXE" and "Heli-Max" and training gear. "Electrifly" and "GPMP0401" are printed on the battery.
What can happen
The rechargeable battery can overheat and catch fire while charging, igniting nearby combustible materials. This poses a fire hazard to consumers.
The fix
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled batteries and contact Hobbico for instructions on returning their battery for a free replacement battery.
Incidents and where it was sold
- Incidents
- Hobbico has received 28 reports of batteries overheating and/or melting, including 27 reports of flames and minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.
- Sold at
- Hobby Stores nationwide and online from November 2007 through March 2008 for about $35. The helicopter kits were sold for $200.
Related pages
Questions and answers
What should I do with the recalled batteries used in radio-controlled helicopter kits?
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled batteries and contact Hobbico for instructions on returning their battery for a free replacement battery.
What is the hazard?
The rechargeable battery can overheat and catch fire while charging, igniting nearby combustible materials. This poses a fire hazard to consumers.
A recall means the maker found a safety problem and offers a free fix; it does not mean every unit has the problem. Units affected are as reported by the company. Popular models sell more and so have more recalls and complaints. Official public data; texts are shortened. Contact the company named above for the remedy.