SAFETY chiefs have recalled five different models of power banks over fears they could pose a hazard to users.
Officials have received reports of the devices exploding and shoppers should stop using the item.
Five different models of Anker power banks have been recalled[/caption]
Several Anker power banks are impacted by the recall order, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The devices affected by the recall have the numbers – A1647, A1652, A1257, A1681 and A1689.
And, the gadgets have Anker engraving on them.
Officials have received 33 reports of the power banks causing fires and explosions.
Fires and explosions have caused four injuries.
And, on one occasion, the incident caused substantial property damage.
The recall order has affected 481,000 units, according to the CPSC.
The power banks were sold across a number of major retailers in store and online, including Walmart, Target, Amazon and Best Buy.
TikTokers could pick up the item on the social media platform.
The item was on sale between August 2023 and June 2025, and retailed for $30 to $50.
Shoppers who have bought the power banks affected can get a cash refund or receive a gift card.
But, there are a series of steps shoppers must take before theory can get compensation.
Americans will have to take a picture of the power bank that clearly shows its model number.
How to handle product recall
FOOD Safety experts insist that shoppers shouldn’t panic if they’re affected by a recall, as many are harmless.
However, consumers should take each warning seriously and follow the necessary steps to protect themselves.
Oftentimes, food manufacturers issue recalls as a precautionary measure, so there likely isn’t a foodborne illness hiding in your pantry.
However, even if the recall is merely a precaution, shoppers should always stay safe and not consume the affected items.
Experts advise people to keep a product closed if it hasn’t been opened, and never feed it to a pet or donate it to food banks.
Anyone who has handled or opened an affected item should wash their hands thoroughly with warm water and soap for 20 seconds.
Read the recall closely for specific instructions on how to get rid of the food item.
Typically, the brand will ask consumers to return the recalled product to the store where they purchased it for a full refund.
Sometimes shoppers will also be asked to throw it away so that no one else can eat it.
Source: FoodSafety.gov
The word “recalled” must be written on the device using a permanent marker.
Unlike other recalled items, Americans cannot throw away the device in the garbage.
This is because it contains a lithium-ion battery.
Lithium-ion batteries are subject to strict travel rules.
Devices with 100 watt hours or less can only be stored in carry-on baggage, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
Batteries with more than 100 watt hours are banned from checked baggage.
Southwest chiefs will require passengers to remove lithium-powered batteries from mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
This change will come into force from September 25.
The power bank contains a lithium-ion battery (stock)[/caption]
