Hobbico Inc. Recalls Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopters Due to Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Batteries Used In Radio-Controlled Helicopter Kits

Units: About 11,000

Importer/Distributor: Hobbico Inc., of Champaign, Ill.

Hazard: The rechargeable battery can overheat and catch fire while charging, igniting nearby combustible materials. This poses a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Hobbico has received 28 reports of batteries overheating and/or melting, including 27 reports of flames and minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the Electrifly lithium-polymer batteries (part #GPMP0401) sold individually or with the Heli-Max Axe CP-L radio-controlled helicopter kits. The kit includes a 23-inch long plastic helicopter, a battery, a radio transmitter, a balance charger, a car adapter, an AC wall adapter, decals that read “HMX”, “AXE” and “Heli-Max” and training gear. “Electrifly” and “GPMP0401” are printed on the battery.

Sold at: Hobby Stores nationwide and online from November 2007 through March 2008 for about $35. The helicopter kits were sold for $200.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled batteries and contact Hobbico for instructions on returning their battery for a free replacement battery.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hobbico toll-free at (866) 462-2426 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the company’s recall Web sites at www.helimaxrc.com or www.electrifly.com to register for the recall