Power Banks on Fire: What You Need to Know

A significant number of power banks have been pulled from the market. The Anker PowerCore 10000, model A1263, is the one in question. It has a lithium battery that can overheat and cause fires. This is a serious issue. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported 19 incidents. These include fires, explosions, minor burns, and property damage totaling over $60, 700. It's crucial to check if your power bank is part of this recall. Look at the back of the device. It should read "Anker PowerCore 10000" with the model number "A1263. "Over a million units were sold in the US. They were available on Amazon, Newegg, and eBay between June 2016 and December 2022. It is important to take action. If you have this model, stop using it immediately. Contact Anker for a free replacement or a $30 gift card. You'll need to send a photo of the power bank with the word "recall" written on it. Also, include a photo of the model number and serial number. A receipt is optional but recommended. Lithium-ion batteries are generally safe. However, they can degrade over time. This degradation can lead to fire hazards. Couriers and airlines have strict rules about transporting them. For example, Southwest Airlines requires passengers to have battery chargers visible when in use on flights. It's essential to dispose of recalled power banks safely. Do not throw them in recycling bins, trash, or battery disposal bins at retailers. Instead, take them to a municipal household hazardous waste collection center. Call ahead to confirm they accept rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Check your power banks. If they are part of the recall, take action immediately.