CPSCAugust 19, 2008

Hobbico Inc. Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopters recall: Fire Hazard

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

Why was Hobbico Inc. Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopters recalled?

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

What should I do if I have this product?

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.

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
Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopter Kits
Company
Hobbico Inc., of Champaign, Ill.
Quantity
About 11,000
Sold at
Hobby Stores nationwide and online from November 2007 through March 2008 for about $35. The helicopter kits were sold for $200.
Recall date
August 19, 2008
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.
Agency
CPSC

Product 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.

Open official CPSC notice Latest recalls