More than 500,000 hoverboards recalled after fires

NEW YORK -- More than 500,000 hoverboards are being recalled after reports that dozens of them have burst into flames.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said Wednesday that it has received 99 reports that the battery packs in the two-wheel motorized scooters caught on fire or exploded, causing burns or property damage.

The CPSC began looking into hoverboards late last year, with the agency at the time urging consumers to be cautious as it tried to determine what caused one of 2015's hottest holiday gift item to overheat.

Concerns that lithium ion batteries inside the hoverboards could spark a fire led to bans by several airlines and college campuses.

The hoverboards being recalled were made by 10 companies, including Swagway and Keenford.

Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled products and contact the recalling company to return their hoverboard for a full refund, a free repair or a free replacement depending on the model.

They were sold by mass merchandisers nationwide from June 2015 through May 2016 for between $350 and $900.

Consumers unclear as to whether their hoverboard is part of the recall can call the CPSC consumer hotline at (800) 638-2772.