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Are hoverboards still dangerous? Many people are wondering if these devices are safe to use after a number of high-profile accidents.
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Introduction
Hoverboards were one of the hottest holiday gifts a few years ago, but after a series of high-profile injuries and fires, they fell out of favor. Are they safe now?
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that hoverboards “remain a potential fire and fall hazard,” and urges consumers to use caution when operating them.
There have been several reports of hoverboard batteries catching fire, causing serious damage to homes and property. In some cases, the hovering devices have exploded while in use.
In addition to the risk of fires, hoverboards can also be dangerous because they can cause riders to fall. There have been reports of people sustaining concussions, broken bones, and other injuries after falling off of hoverboards.
If you do decide to purchase a hoverboard, the CPSC recommends that you buy one that is certified by an independent testing laboratory. You should also make sure that the device has specific safety features, such as overcharge and overdischarge protection, and a tip-over shutoff feature.
What are hoverboards?
Hoverboards are two-wheeled, self-balancing scooters that allow riders to glide along effortlessly. They first became popular in 2015, but quickly fell out of favor after a series of fires and injuries were reported.
In recent years, hoverboards have made a comeback, thanks to new safety features and improved designs. But are they still dangerous?
Here’s what you need to know about the risks of riding a hoverboard:
Falls:
One of the biggest dangers of hoverboards is the risk of falling off. Even experienced riders can lose control and suffer serious injuries, such as broken bones or head trauma.
Collisions:
Another danger of hoverboards is the risk of colliding with other objects, such as cars or pedestrians. This can lead to serious injuries, especially if you’re not wearing protective gear.
Fire hazards:
Hoverboards can also pose a fire hazard. In 2015, several reports of hoverboard fires were reported in the United States, leading to calls for stricter safety regulations.
Nowadays, most hoverboards are equipped with lithium-ion batteries that are much less likely to overheat and catch fire. However, it’s still important to be careful when using one, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How do hoverboards work?
Hoverboards work by using two electric motors, one in each wheel, to create a balance between the two. The rider controls the speed and direction of the hoverboard by leaning their weight in the desired direction. Hoverboards also have sensors that detect when someone is trying to get on or off, and they will automatically shut off the motors to prevent injuries.
Are hoverboards dangerous?
Hoverboards have been in the news a lot lately, and not always for good reasons. There have been reports of the devices catching fire, sometimes causing serious damage to property and even injuries to users. So are hoverboards still dangerous?
It depends. Some newer models of hoverboards have been designed with better safety features, including fire-resistant materials and improved battery management systems. However, older models or cheaper knock-offs may still pose a risk.
If you’re considering buying a hoverboard, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re getting a product from a reputable manufacturer. It’s also a good idea to check with your local fire department or consumer protection agency to find out if there have been any reports of problems with hoverboards in your area.
Why are hoverboards dangerous?
Hoverboards are dangerous because they can overheat and explode. This is usually due to the battery, which can overheat and cause a fire. In some cases, the board itself can catch fire.
How to stay safe on a hoverboard
Hoverboards became a must-have holiday gift in 2015, but reports of the self-balancing scooters catching fire led to widespread safety concerns. Major retailers pulled the devices from their shelves, and hoverboard manufacturers were hit with lawsuits.
Now, hoverboards are making a comeback. But are they safe?
Here’s what you need to know before you buy a hoverboard:
Check for a certified UL2272 label. This certification means the hoverboard has passed a series of safety tests, including tests for battery life and overcharging.
Choose a reputable brand. Do some research on the brand before you buy to make sure they have a good reputation.
Avoid cheap knockoffs. Don’t be tempted by cheap knockoffs — they may not have undergone the same safety testing as certified hoverboards.
Read reviews. Before you buy, read online reviews to see what other customers have to say about the quality and safety of the hoverboard.
Follow basic safety precautions. Even if you do all of the above, there are still some basic safety precautions you should follow when using a hoverboard: never leave it charging unattended, never ride it in wet conditions, and always wear protective gear (helmets, knee pads, etc.) when riding.
Tips for staying safe on a hoverboard
Hoverboards gained popularity in 2015, but soon after reports of the devices spontaneously catching fire led to bans from retailers and colleges. In 2016, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recalled more than 500,000 hoverboards from nine different companies after receiving reports of 99 fires in 24 states.
So are hoverboards still dangerous? While there have been no recent reports of fires, the CPSC is still advising caution when using the devices. Here are a few tips for staying safe on a hoverboard:
– Buy a hoverboard that has been certified by a reputable testing agency such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
– Check the battery charger that came with your hoverboard and make sure it has the UL logo.
– Do not charge your hoverboard overnight or while you are not home to monitor it.
– Do not leave your hoverboard plugged in when you are not using it.
– Keep flammable items such as paper or clothing away from your hoverboard while it is charging.
– Do not use a damaged or recalled battery charger.
How to choose a safe hoverboard
In recent years, hoverboards have become increasingly popular. However, there have been reports of injuries and fires associated with the use of hoverboards. If you are considering buying a hoverboard, it is important to choose one that is safe.
There are a few things to look for when choosing a safe hoverboard:
– Make sure the hoverboard is certified by a reputable organization such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). This certification means that the hoverboard has been tested and meets safety standards.
– Look for a hoverboard with a good battery system. A good battery system will help to prevent fires.
– Avoid anyhoverboards that are made with substandard materials. Cheap materials are more likely to catch fire or break easily, leading to injuries.
If you follow these tips, you should be able to find a safe hoverboard for your needs.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it. The answer to the question “are hoverboards still dangerous?” is a resounding “maybe.” The truth is that we just don’t know for sure. There have been some reports of fires and injuries, but it’s hard to say whether or not these incidents are due to defective products or user error. If you do decide to buy a hoverboard, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable brand. And always, always follow the safety instructions!
Resources
There are many resources available to help you understand the dangers of hoverboards. The website StopHoverboards.com provides a wealth of information on the topic, including a list of known accidents and incidents involving hoverboards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission also provides helpful tips on how to stay safe while using a hoverboard.
