Urgent recall issued for 420,000 phone chargers over fears they'll burst into flames
Over 400,000 phone chargers have been recalled over a major fire risk.
Brooklyn-based charger makers Casely are recalling a tonne of wireless portable chargers due to reported fire risks.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning after 51 reports came in about the products' lithium-ion batteries overheating and potentially catching fire.
The CPSC also warned that six minor burn injuries tied to the chargers overhearing had been reported.
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Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable but degrade slowly over time.
As they can store a lot of energy in a small space, these batteries have become a staple in our everyday devices, including phones, laptops and electric vehicles.
However, their features also make them a fire hazard if damaged or poorly made.
Most obviously, in smartphones, the batteries are known to swell, letting users know the phone is on its last legs and needs a replacement.
The 'dodgy' chargers being recalled are the Casely Power Pods 5000mAh MagSafe wireless chargers, model number E33A.
They’ve been sold online between March 2022 and September 2024 on Amazon, getcasely.com as well as other websites in different colours and prints.
CBS News stated that the chargers usually sell between $30 and $70.
The word 'Casely' is engraved on the front with the model number (E33A) printed on the back.
These chargers work with a variety of devices, but users are being warned to stop using them immediately.
According to the recall notice, affected consumers can contact Casely to receive a free replacement, adding that proof of purchase is not needed. All consumers need to do is fill out an online form on Casely's website and follow the instructions, including uploading photos of their recalled device.
Most importantly, customers should not throw their Casely chargers in the trash or recycling, as per the commission. This is because the batteries are known to pose a fire risk if not handled properly and, as such, must be discarded differently.
Instead, the CPSC advises people to contact their local hazardous waste collection centre for guidance on how to safely dispose of the wireless chargers.
Furthermore, the US Fire Administration advises consumers to stop using lithium-ion batteries immediately if they emit an odour, start overheating, leak, make strange noises or change in colour or shape. To check if a product meets national safety standards, consumers should check for a 'Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory' stamp, according to the administration.