E-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards have grown in popularity among Americans in recent years, as a way to get to and from work or school, or for fun. Our latest report finds that emergency room (ER)-treated injuries and deaths with these products are also increasing. In light of the spike in injuries, CPSC reminds consumers to use caution and safety with these devices.
CPSC recommends these tips to prevent fires with these devices:
- Always be present when charging devices using lithium-ion batteries. Never charge them while sleeping.
- Only use the charger that came with your device.
- Only use an approved replacement battery pack.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper charging and unplug the device when done.
- Never use an e-mobility device with a battery pack that has been modified/reworked by unqualified personnel or with re-purposed or used cells
- NEVER throw lithium batteries into the trash or general recycling. Instead, take them to your local battery recycler or hazardous waste collection center.
Because collisions with motor vehicles and user-control issues are the most common hazards, CPSC urges consumers to do the following:
- Watch our PSA on safe riding.
- Always wear a bicycle helmet.
- Before riding, make sure to check for any damage, which includes examining the handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tires, cables and frame.
- See and be seen. Most deaths involve motor vehicles. Many micromobility products are small, quick, and silent, making it difficult for others to spot you, especially in parking lots and structures.
- Expect vehicle drivers and pedestrians not to see you; slow down and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Use the bell/horn to alert others.
- Do not make abrupt, unpredictable movements.
- Beware of obstacles. E-scooters have small tires, so objects and uneven surfaces can cause them to stop suddenly, throwing you off.
- Always keep both hands on the handlebars and keep items off the handlebars.
- Slow down and lean back when you have to ride over bumps.
- Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Only one person per e-scooter; additional riders can increase the risk and severity of collisions.
- Follow all manufacturer directions, review the safety information and identify and weight and age limits for the micromobility product.
If you have an issue with an e-bike or other micromobility product battery, report it to CPSC on SaferProducts.gov.
Hoverboard Recalls:
DGL Group Recalls Hover-1 Superfly Hoverboards Due to Fall and Injury Hazards
Tech Drift Recalls Self-Balancing Scooters/Hoverboards Due to Fire and Explosion Hazards
iLive Self-Balancing Scooters/Hoverboards Recalled by Digital Products Due to Fire Hazard
iHoverspeed Self-Balancing Scooters/Hoverboards Recalled by Simplified Wireless Due to Fire Hazard
Drone Nerds Recalls Self-Balancing Scooters/Hoverboards Due to Fire and Explosion Hazards
