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Feds Warn of Fire Hazard in Remote-Controlled Airplanes, Helicopters

Lithium batteries can overheat and start a fire

February 12, 2008

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Federal safety regulators are warning that the batteries in remote-controlled helicopters and airplanes can present a fire hazard.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers to follow manufacturer’s instructions when charging toys that contain rechargeable lithium batteries, the same type of battery implicated in numerous laptop and cell phone fires.

The warning coincides with the recall by Soft Air USA of 30,000 'Fun2Fly' remote-controlled helicopter toys. The company said the rechargeable battery inside the helicopter can catch fire during charging, igniting the helicopter and nearby combustible materials. This poses a burn or fire hazard to consumers.

Rechargeable lithium batteries (lithium-ion or lithium polymer) are increasingly being used in toys because the technology is lighter than traditional batteries. However, rechargeable lithium batteries have a lot of energy in a small package, so consumers should use caution when charging and handling them.

These batteries are charged with a transmitter or a charging adapter. Overcharging them can result in overheating, fire or an explosion.

Since November 2007, CPSC has received 26 reports of remote-controlled helicopters igniting while being charged and one incident of a helicopter that ignited while flying. These reports involve minor burns and minor property damage.

“CPSC has received dozens of reports of incidents and injuries involving remote-controlled helicopters igniting,” said Nancy Nord, CPSC Acting Chairman. “We are urging consumers to follow simple safety tips to prevent future incidents and injuries.”

To promote the safe use of remote-controlled toys that contain rechargeable lithium batteries, CPSC recommends the following:

• Do not leave the toy unattended while charging it.

• Battery charging should be done by adults.

• Charge the toy on a non-flammable surface and keep it away from flammable items.

• Turn the charger off when the toy’s battery is charged, and always unplug it from the toy.

• Disconnect AC wall chargers from outlets while not in use.

• If the toy has been damaged, immediately stop use, unplug, and safely move the toy away from flammable materials.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging the toy. Do NOT charge longer than recommended.

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