Hoverboard Recall

Jetson Electric Bikes has recalled approximately 53,000 of its hoverboards due to a fire hazard. The hoverboard uses lithium ion batteries which can overheat during charging and ignite. The units that are involved in this recall were manufactured between 2018 and 2019. In addition, the affected models have a serial number that begins with the letters “ROG”. Jetson recommends that consumers stop using the products immediately and notify Jetson using their on-line form. The form is accessible on the company website at http://www.ridejetson.com/rogue-recall. Photographs of the hoverboard are also available on the website. Consumers can also contact Jetson by calling 1-800-635-4815. Jetson has stated that it will issue a full refund to consumers for the affected units.

Combustible Hoverboards Still Out There

Back in 2016, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled thousands of hoverboards due to a problem with lithium ion batteries.  The batteries would short circuit and cause the hoverboards to ignite.  Because most of the brands used cheap materials and were made overseas, the market pretty much disappeared overnight.  However, hoverboards that have some age on them are still in use.  Recently, one was encountered in the investigation of an apartment fire.  The condition of the hoverboard is shown below.  Spontaneous ignition of the hoverboard was determined to have been the cause of the fire.  More specifically, the lithium ion batteries  appeared to have self-short-circuited resulting in excessive heat buildup (thermal runaway) that ultimately led to the ignition of the product.  If you have an older product, it is recommended that you replace the batteries with batteries or a battery pack certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).  Make sure that the batteries or battery pack has been tested according to UL standard 1642 or 2054.  The product should carry a label showing what standard has been met.   For new products made this year, 2020, the product should have been tested according to UL standard 2272.  Look for a label on the product indicating that the product has been certified accordingly.