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Estes-Cox Radio Control Airplanes with Lithium Polymer Batteries Recalled for Fire Hazard

U.S. CPSCFireMar 27, 2007
Recalled Sky Squadron Model Airplane Package
Recalled Sky Squadron Model Airplane Package
Recalled Sky Squadron Model Airplane
Recalled Sky Squadron Model Airplane
Recalled Sky Rangers Model Airplane Package
Recalled Sky Rangers Model Airplane Package
Recalled Sky Rangers Model Airplane
Recalled Sky Rangers Model Airplane

Photos from the official notice: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission · image rights

Hazard

The airplanes can overheat while recharging the battery, posing a fire hazard.

Remedy

Consumers with the recalled airplanes should stop using them immediately and contact Estes-Cox for instructions on returning the airplane for a replacement product.

Incidents & injuries

Estes-Cox has received nine reports of overheating, including one report of a plane catching fire and resulting in a minor burn injury.

Product description

This recall involves Sky Squadron Model 4153 (sold at RadioShack) and Sky Rangers Model 4161 (sold at Wal-Mart) radio controlled airplanes with rechargeable lithium batteries. The airplanes have a wingspan of about 18- to 20-inches and a polystyrene foam fuselage. Model 4153 is a blue Corsair single engine airplane with a Number 15 decal and a black and blue transmitter/charger. Model 4161 is a red twin engine plane with an all-black transmitter/charger. The model numbers are on the box and instructions.

Sold on

RadioShack stores nationwide sold the Sky Squadron Airplane from December 2006 through February 2007 for about $35. Wal-Mart stores nationwide sold the Sky Ranger Airplane from January 2007 through February 2007 for about $30.

Contact the company

For additional information, contact Estes-Cox at (800) 576-5811 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.estesrockets.com

What should I do?

Stop using the product and follow the remedy below. Contact the company for a refund, repair or replacement — recall remedies are free.

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