Printer-friendly version
By Brigitte Garcia
January 12, 2016 (San Diego’s East County) -- Hoverboards were among the hottest gifts of the holiday season, but if you received one this Christmas, you may be having more problems than fun. That’s because these futuristic products have been banned from college dorms, shopping malls, businesses, and other locations due to many hoverboards that have burst into flames.
USA Today reported all major airports have prohibited people from flying if they are carrying a hoverboard in their luggage. And the postal service is not shipping any via air mail. Hoverboard fires have been documented in media coverage and on videos posted on social media. At least 30 colleges and universities have banned or restricted hoverboards, according to the Washington Post.
It has been discovered that the lithium-ion batteries used to power hoverboards are prone to overheating and combusting, USA Today also reports. Problems have been blamed on manufacturers using cheap parts and cutting corners. Many boards that caught fire have been confiscated after being found to be counterfeited.
To avoid any dangerous problems with your hoverboard, or if you’re still considering buying one, there are some things to know.
It’s a good idea to buy from sites you trust. ABC News reported that hoverboard manufacturers on Amazon need to have safety approval shown before they can sell.
Make sure to only buy boards that are under Underwriters Laboratory approval. This means they have met safety standards and are not knock-offs. Safer hoverboards should come with instructions on how to properly use and charge them.
Lastly, keep an eye on your hoverboard when it’s charging, since this is a time when the batteries are most apt to overheat.
It is important to stay aware of these dangers and keep everyone safe.
Recent comments