Amazon Offers Hoverboard Refunds, Feds Continue Investigating Dozens Of Fires
(CBS SF) – Following dozens of fires involving self-balancing scooters commonly known as hoverboards, Amazon is now offering refunds. Meanwhile, the Consumer Product Safety Commission continues to look for the root cause.
According to a statement from the agency, anyone who bought the toys through Amazon can return their hoverboard for a full refund.
"I am pleased that at least one leading retailer is erring on the side of caution and taking action now," CPSC chairman Elliot Kaye said in a statement.
Kaye went on to say, "As encouraged as I am by Amazon's actions, I expect other retailers and manufacturers of hoverboards to take action and offer a full refund now to their customers as well."
The CPSC said they are focusing on the lithium-ion battery packs and circuit boards in the hoverboards. The agency is also raising concerns about serious falls and emergency room visits associated with riders falling off the boards.
At least two hoverboard fires have been reported in the Bay Area in recent months. Earlier this week, a hoverboard was blamed in a fire that killed two dogs in a Santa Rosa home. Last month, a hoverboard caught fire when a 15-year-old stepped onto the board while it was charging.
The CPSC urges consumers to have a working fire extinguisher while charging or using the hoverboards. Riders should have helmets, knee pads and wrist guards. Officials also warn riders to not use their hoverboards on or near roads.
Tim Fang is a digital producer for CBS San Francisco. A native of the Bay Area, follow him on Twitter @fangtj.
