Product Safety Inspectors from the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection are conducting recall effectiveness checks at retail establishments in response to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s voluntary recall of batteries used in Radio-Controlled Helicopter Kits, imported and distributed by Hobbico Inc., of Champaign, Illinois, due to a fire hazard. This product was manufactured in China.
The battery recalled is an Electrifly lithium-polymer battery, part # GPMP0401 which was sold individually or with the Heli-Max Axe CP-L Radio - Controlled Helicopter Kits. “Electrifly” and “GPMP0401” are printed on the battery. The kit contains a plastic toy helicopter, approximately 23 inches in length, a battery, a balance charger, a car adapter, a radio transmitter, an AC wall adapter, training gear and decals that read “HMX”, “AXA” and “Heli-Max”. This product was sold nationwide at hobby stores and online from November 2007 through March 2008. The battery sold for approximately $35.00 and the helicopter kit sold for approximately $200.00
Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell, Jr. strongly recommends that consumers check their homes for this product and if found, immediately cease using it and contact Hobbico for instructions on returning the recalled battery for a free battery replacement. No injuries have been reported, however, there have been 27 reports of flames and minor property damage. For additional information, please call Hobbico toll free at (866) 462-2426 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time or visit their websites at www.helimaxrc.com or www.electrifly.com .
