The recall includes “INIU BI-B41” chargers with a capacity of 10000 mAh, available in black and blue, bearing the INIU logo and an LED paw print on the front. These chargers were sold through “Amazon” between August 2021 and April 2022 for approximately $18 per unit.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warned that the batteries in these chargers may overheat significantly, potentially causing fires and burns. INIU stated that it received 15 reports of chargers overheating, including 11 fire incidents, resulting in three minor injuries and property damage estimated at $400,000.
Consumers can check if their devices are included in the recall by looking at the serial number printed on the bottom of the device, which includes the numbers: 000G21, 000H21, 000I21, and 000L21. The committee urged users to immediately stop using these chargers and follow the company’s instructions for returning or replacing them. INIU confirmed that all other power banks of its other models are unaffected and safe to use, and that this recall is merely a precautionary measure to ensure safety.
The company advised consumers to keep the charger in a cool, dry place until they are sure it is included in the recall, emphasizing that lithium-ion batteries require special handling and should not be disposed of in regular garbage.
In a similar context, Anker recalled more than one million portable charging batteries last June, including the “PowerCore 10000” model, after receiving 19 reports of fires and explosions, resulting in two minor injuries and property damage incidents worth more than $60,000. The company pointed out that overheating of lithium batteries may lead to melting of plastic components, emission of smoke, and fires. (Russia Today)
