Coby Electronics Recalls Rechargeable Batteries Sold with Portable DVD/CD/MP3 Players 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: Rechargeable batteries sold with portable DVD/CD/MP3 players

Units: About 19,600

Importer: Coby Electronics Corp., of Lake Success N.Y.

Hazard: The rechargeable batteries can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Coby Electronics has received 10 reports of batteries overheating, including eight reports of fires resulting in property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recall involves Coby DVD/CD/MP3 players with an 8 ½ inch screen and product number TF-DVD- 8501. The rechargeable batteries sold with the DVD players have serial numbers that begin with “HY.” The serial number can be found on a white sticker affixed to the battery. “Coby” is printed on the front cover and the product number is on the bottom of the unit.

Sold at: Discount, electronics, music, toy, office supply stores and distributors of electronic products nationwide from January 2007 through September 2009 for between $140 and $275.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the recalled batteries from the unit and contact Coby Electronics to receive a free replacement battery. Consumers can continue to use the DVD/CD/MP3 players with AC or DC power adapters.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Coby Electronics toll-free at (877) 305-2629 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.cobyusa.com