Safety regulator, Ortovox USA Announce Recall of Avalanche Transceivers
Recall 05271 · Sep 15, 2005 · Ortovox USA
15,500
units affected
15,500
units affected
Facts
- Recall number
- 05271
- Date
- Sep 15, 2005
- Company
- Ortovox USA
- Units affected
- 15,500
- Product
- Ortovox M1 and M2 Avalanche Transceivers - A device worn to help locate a buried avalanche victim
- Product type
- Safety/Emergency Tool Kits
- Hazard
- Injury
The product
Both models of avalanche transceivers are plastic and measure 5.5 inches by 2.5 inches by 1 inch. The M1 has a navy blue body and a yellow volume control switch. The M2 avalanche transceiver comes in two colors: glacier white (gray) with a red volume control switch, and orange with a gray volume control switch. The model name and "ORTOVOX" are written on the front of the transceivers.
What can happen
The batteries in these devices can become dislodged when the transceiver is struck sharply. The transceiver could fail to function properly in the aftermath of an avalanche, and result in the buried victim not being found in time to avoid serious injury or death.
The fix
Consumers should stop using the recalled avalanche transceivers and contact the firm to receive a new battery door that will help prevent the batteries from becoming dislodged.
Incidents and where it was sold
- Incidents
- There have been three reports by consumers of the batteries in these devices becoming dislodged. No injuries have been reported.
- Sold at
- Outdoor specialty stores nationwide, from January 1997 through July 2005, for about $300.
Related pages
Questions and answers
What should I do with the recalled ortovox m1 and m2 avalanche transceivers - a device worn to help locate a buried avalanche victim?
Consumers should stop using the recalled avalanche transceivers and contact the firm to receive a new battery door that will help prevent the batteries from becoming dislodged.
What is the hazard?
The batteries in these devices can become dislodged when the transceiver is struck sharply. The transceiver could fail to function properly in the aftermath of an avalanche, and result in the buried victim not being found in time to avoid serious injury or death.
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.