CPSCMarch 27, 2007

Estes-Cox Radio Control Airplanes with Lithium Polymer recall

Estes-Cox Radio Control Airplanes with Lithium Polymer Batteries Recalled for Fire Hazard

Why was Estes-Cox Radio Control Airplanes with Lithium Polymer recalled?

The airplanes can overheat while recharging the battery, posing a fire hazard.

What should I do if I have this product?

Consumers with the recalled airplanes should stop using them immediately and contact Estes-Cox for instructions on returning the airplane for a replacement product. Contact: For additional information, contact Estes-Cox at (800) 576-5811 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.estesrockets.com

What to do with a recalled product: refunds, receipts, safe disposal and how to report a problem.

Is my product affected?

Compare the item in your hand with every identifier below from the official CPSC record. Only products that match the listed product and identifiers are part of this recall.

Product
Radio Control Model Airplanes (Models 4153 and 4161) with Lithium Polymer Batteries
Company
Estes-Cox Corp., of Penrose, Colo.
Quantity
About 66,000
Sold at
RadioShack stores nationwide sold the Sky Squadron Airplane from December 2006 through February 2007 for about $35. Wal-Mart stores nationwide sold the Sky Ranger Airplane from January 2007 through February 2007 for about $30.
Recall date
March 27, 2007
Incidents / injuries
Estes-Cox has received nine reports of overheating, including one report of a plane catching fire and resulting in a minor burn injury.
Agency
CPSC

Product description

This recall involves Sky Squadron Model 4153 (sold at RadioShack) and Sky Rangers Model 4161 (sold at Wal-Mart) radio controlled airplanes with rechargeable lithium batteries. The airplanes have a wingspan of about 18- to 20-inches and a polystyrene foam fuselage. Model 4153 is a blue Corsair single engine airplane with a Number 15 decal and a black and blue transmitter/charger. Model 4161 is a red twin engine plane with an all-black transmitter/charger. The model numbers are on the box and instructions.

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