Three Irish retailers, Brown Thomas, The Gadget Box and Bikes or Bicycles, are to stop selling so-called “hoverboard” devices with immediate effect, after an investigation by the Ireland’s consumer protection body.
The investigation uncovered evidence of unsafe plugs and fuses, as well as potentially hazardous issues with cabling, chargers, and battery packs.
There have been a string of international incidents linked to the hoverboards, particularly fires. Amazon have stopped selling them, and airlines worldwide have moved to ban them on their passenger jets amidst safety concerns.
Nevertheless, if you are planning to buy one for Christmas or beyond, the following recommendations are in place:
Check the box, charger and the device for markings or traceable information; such as the name and contact details of the manufacturer and/or importer.
Check the manual provided with the product for spelling mistakes and information or instructions which do not make sense.
If you are buying a board online or on social media, check for online reviews which seem genuine and for information about the company’s head office and landline number. .
Be wary of buying these products on social media or a website from someone you don’t know.
Remember also that if you buy from another consumer/private seller, your consumer rights do not apply.