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Product recall · CPSCAugust 19, 2008Serious

Hobbico Inc. Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopters

The notice says to stop using it — see below for what to do.

What’s wrong

The rechargeable battery can overheat and catch fire while charging, igniting nearby combustible materials. This poses a fire hazard to consumers.

The Recall Registry rates this serious — Fire or burn risk.

What it looks like

Photos help. Identifiers decide. Appearance can vary by color, finish or packaging. Confirm the model number, date code or other identifier in the official notice.

Recalled Battery
Recalled Battery

Recall image provided by CPSC

Radio-Controlled Helicopter Kit
Radio-Controlled Helicopter Kit

What to do

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled batteries and contact Hobbico for instructions on returning their battery for a free replacement battery.

Who to contact: For additional information, contact Hobbico toll-free at (866) 462-2426 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the company's recall Web sites at www.helimaxrc.com or www.electrifly.com to register for the recall.

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.

Details

Units affected
About 11,000
Recall date
August 19, 2008
Brand
Hobbico Inc., of Champaign, Ill.
Injuries reported
None reported
What has been reported
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.
Model, lot or SKU numbers
GPMP0401
Sold at

Hobby Stores nationwide and online from November 2007 through March 2008 for about $35. The helicopter kits were sold for $200.

The official notice

This recall was issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Recall Registry summarises it — always confirm the details at the source.

Their exact wording: “Hobbico Inc. Recalls Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopters Due to Fire Hazard”

Read it on CPSC →

Worried about the other things in your house? You can write down what you have and be told if one is recalled — or, if you sell second-hand, check your whole stock at once.

Filed under: Appliances & tools

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