Urgent: Safely Dispose of Recalled Lithium-Ion Batteries from Costco
Introduction
Half a million myCharge portable chargers sold exclusively at Costco are being recalled due to a fire risk. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has warned consumers to immediately stop using these devices. Proper disposal of the recalled batteries is crucial to prevent accidents.
What’s the Problem?
The myCharge POWER HUB All-In-One 10,000mAh portable chargers can overheat while being charged, posing a burn and fire hazard. The CPSC has received 120 reports of overheating, including two instances where house fires caused $165,000 in property damage.
Affected Models and Date Codes
The recall affects the following three models of myCharge portable chargers:
- AO10FK-A
- AO10FK-B
- AO10FK-C
Date codes, printed on the outer surface of the retractable wall prong, are also included:
- End with 21 or 22
- End with 23 (only these four specific codes: 0123, 0923, 1523, 1723)
How to Dispose of the Batteries
Discarding recalled lithium-ion batteries poses different risks than regular batteries. Here are the proper disposal steps:
- Follow Local and State Ordinances
Contact your municipal recycling center for instructions on disposing of damaged or defective lithium batteries. They may have specific protocols in place. - Never Throw Them in the Trash
Recalled lithium-ion batteries should never be thrown away with regular household garbage. - Avoid Battery Recycling Boxes
Do not deposit them in used battery recycling boxes found at retail or home improvement stores. These boxes are designed for non-hazardous batteries. - Contact myCharge for a Replacement
myCharge is offering free replacements for all recalled portable chargers. Visit their recall page for details.
Conclusion
Safety is the top priority. If you own one of the recalled myCharge portable chargers, stop using it immediately. Contact myCharge for a replacement and follow the proper disposal procedures outlined by your local authorities. Together, we can prevent fires and ensure the safety of our communities.