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Hobbico Inc. Recalls Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopters Due to Fire Hazard

Recalled August 19, 2008 · CPSC recall 08364 · Hobbico

Hazard

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

Remedy

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

Units

About 11,000

Incidents / injuries

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.

Description

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 to do

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

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.

Product

Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopter Kits

Imported by

Hobbico Inc., of Champaign, Ill.

Retailers

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

Made in

China

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Official recall notice on cpsc.gov →