The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has declared hoverboards unsafe after a months-long investigation into the safety hazards posed by the recent trend. According to the CPSC, from December 1^st through February 17^th, the agency received reports of 52 hoverboard fires that led to over $2 million in property damage.

The CPSC sent an official notice to retailers, manufacturers and importers, containing new hoverboard safety standards. The Commission noted that there would be consequences if the notice is not followed, including seizure of devices in addition to civil and criminal penalties. Further, hoverboard makers and sellers have been called to voluntarily take the product off the market until recertification as safe by UL—the independent testing firm widely used by United states electronics manufacturers.

UL recently created a new certification protocol for hoverboards specifically. Hoverboard makers and retailers are held directly accountable by the federal government, and are responsible for complying with the safety standards issues by UL. The notice mentions that “consumers risk serious injury or death if their self-balancing scooters ignite and burn.” Thus, any hoverboard brand without the UL mark on its packaging is without authentic certification from the proper safety testing company.

The CPSC conducted a series of tests on the device. Checks included analysis of the voltage of the device while in use, inspection of circuit boards and batteries and examination of previously burned products and dynamometer tests, which measure the force of the device.

In sum, no matter the brand or cost, U.S. government officials declare hoverboards a safety hazard, unless certified by UL, and maintain that the devices should not be sold or used by consumers.

For more information regarding fire hazards of hoverboards or other devices, contact the fire law professionals at Azrael, Franz, Schwab & Lipowitz.