Hoverboards Seized Over Explosion Fears
Faulty electrics mean they could explode or overheat - with two people forced to jump from a window when one caught fire.
Thursday 3 December 2015 02:46, UK
Thousands of hoverboards have been seized over fears they could explode and authorities have urged caution over buying one of the gadgets.
The self-balancing scooters are tipped to be one of this year's must-have Christmas presents - but National Trading Standards (NTS) have confiscated 15,000 of the 17,000 examined since 15 October.
Officials have said most had "non-compliant electrical components that could explode or catch fire".
Dave Robinson, part of London Fire Brigade's Investigation Team, said the problem affected a number of brands - mostly imported models but not exclusively so.
"We're really concerned - we've had at least three incidents that resulted in fire. One of which, two people had to jump from a first-floor window to save themselves," said Mr Robinson.
He also urged caution on buying a hoverboard from a large, national retailer.
"A number of national stores have had to recalls or safety notices on products they've sold, so until it's ironed out ... I couldn't recommend doing that."
NTS chairman Lord Toby Harris said: "Our teams at sea ports, postal hubs and airports have seen a significant spike in the number of unsafe hoverboards arriving at national entry points in recent weeks and are working around the clock to prevent dangerous items from entering the supply chain.
"We suspect that most of these products are being imported for onward sale domestically as Christmas approaches."
Many of the boards that were seized had non-compliant plugs without fuses, which increase the risk of the device overheating, exploding or catching fire, and cut-off switches which failed when tested.
Chargers, cabling and batteries were also found to fail safety standards.
Consumers have been given some key advice:
:: Never leave the device charging unattended, especially overnight.
A faulty cut-off switch or plug without a fuse could lead to it overheating, exploding or catching fire.
:: Check the shape of the plug. The first unsafe boards identified often had a clover-shaped plug.
:: Check for online reviews that seem genuine and for information about the company's head office and landline number.
Sites that have spelling or grammar mistakes can be an indication that it is not a professional operation.
:: Never be dazzled by a bargain. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
:: Report any concerns to Citizens Advice on 03454 04 05 06.