What was recalled
If you have purchased a toy microphone recently, particularly one associated with the popular television show America’s Got Talent, it is crucial to verify whether your specific item is part of this urgent safety recall. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced on February 6, 2025, that Jazwares is recalling a specific line of microphones marketed under the First Act brand. These are not standard audio recording devices but rather interactive toy products designed to amplify the user’s voice and provide entertainment features such as treble, bass, and echo adjustments. The recall targets units sold in retail stores across the United States and online at Jazwares.com. It is important to note that while the product carries the America’s Got Talent branding, it is distributed by Jazwares under their First Act label, so checking the brand name on the packaging or the product itself is essential for accurate identification.
The specific items affected are black microphones that measure approximately 10.5 inches in length and weigh about one pound. Visually, these units feature the America’s Got Talent logo prominently displayed on the front. The design includes an integrated speaker located below the microphone head, with a power button and control buttons situated on the back panel. A critical detail for identification is the power source: these microphones are powered by an internal, rechargeable lithium-ion battery that cannot be removed by the user. This non-removable battery is the core component driving the safety concern. The recall encompasses units identified by two specific Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) numbers printed on the bottom of the integrated speaker section: AGT0002, which represents the microphone sold individually, and TMS0002, which indicates a package that includes both the microphone and a poster.
We must address a significant gap in the available information regarding the scope of this recall. The official recall facts provided do not specify the total number of units involved in this action, nor do they list the exact retail locations beyond stating they were sold at stores nationwide and online. This absence of precise quantity data means that consumers cannot determine the likelihood of their specific unit being included based on volume alone; instead, reliance on the physical identifiers described above is mandatory. The recall was initiated due to reports of the lithium-ion batteries within these devices overheating. While the announcement details incidents involving smoke and fire damage, it does not provide a breakdown of how many units were sold in each region or during which specific timeframes prior to the February 6 announcement. Therefore, if your microphone matches the physical description and SKU numbers listed, you should assume it is part of this recall regardless of when or where you bought it, as the hazard persists until the remedy is completed.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific type of energy storage component known as a lithium-ion battery. While these batteries are standard in many modern electronics because they are lightweight and hold a charge well, they contain chemicals that are highly reactive under certain conditions. In the case of the Jazwares America's Got Talent microphones, the risk stems from the battery’s ability to overcharge. When a lithium-ion cell charges beyond its designed limit, the internal pressure rises significantly. This can cause the electrolyte inside the battery to break down, generating excessive heat and potentially creating combustible gases.
When this thermal runaway occurs, the battery does not just stop working; it can ignite. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), this ignition has already resulted in smoke and fire damage to household surfaces like walls and floors in at least three reported incidents. The danger here is twofold: first, the immediate threat of a flame breaking out from a device that is typically held close to the face or used by children; second, the rapid spread of fire within a home environment, which can escalate quickly before it is noticed.
It is important to understand why this happens in a toy-like product. These microphones are powered by non-removable rechargeable batteries, meaning the user cannot simply swap out a worn-out cell for a new one when the battery’s safety margins degrade over time. As the battery ages or if the charging circuitry fails to regulate voltage properly, the likelihood of overcharging increases. This is not a defect in the microphone’s sound quality or functionality, but rather a fundamental safety failure in its power system.
The CPSC has noted that while no injuries have been reported so far, the potential for harm is serious. Fire hazards involving lithium-ion batteries can release toxic fumes and cause burns, even if the flame itself is small. The fact that these microphones are designed to amplify voice and include controls like treble, bass, and echo switches might make them feel like a normal, safe toy, but the underlying power source poses a hidden risk. This is why stopping use immediately is critical—you cannot tell by looking at the microphone whether its internal battery is stable or on the verge of ignition.
In general, lithium-ion battery fires are particularly dangerous because they can reignite after appearing to be extinguished. The chemical reaction that causes the fire continues as long as there is oxygen and reactive material inside the cell. This is why proper disposal is emphasized in the remedy: you must not throw these units in ordinary trash where they might be crushed or short-circuited, potentially triggering a fire in a waste truck or landfill. Instead, following the specific disposal instructions provided by local and state regulations ensures that the risk is contained until the battery can be neutralized by professionals.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this recall consists of children and teenagers who are active fans of the television show America’s Got Talent. These microphones are designed as interactive toys that amplify voice, allowing users to mimic performers with treble, bass, and echo effects. Because the product is marketed toward young consumers who enjoy role-playing and performance, it is likely found in homes with children aged six to twelve years old. This demographic is particularly vulnerable not only because they are the intended users but also because their interaction patterns often involve extended play sessions, which can lead to prolonged charging times. When a device is left plugged in overnight or charged for excessive periods while the child is at school or asleep, the risk of the lithium-ion battery overcharging increases significantly.
Beyond the direct users, there is a secondary group at risk: household members who may encounter the device after an incident has begun. The recall notes that three confirmed incidents involved batteries igniting and causing smoke and fire damage to walls and floors. This suggests that the failure can occur in residential settings where flammable materials like drywall, carpeting, or furniture are nearby. If a child is asleep in their room when a microphone left charging on a nightstand or desk ignites, they may not wake up until smoke levels are dangerously high. The elderly or individuals with mobility issues who live in the same household are also at heightened risk during such an event, as they may have less time to react to or escape a rapidly developing fire caused by an electronic device.
It is important to understand why this specific hazard affects these groups differently than others. Unlike traditional alkaline batteries that leak corrosive chemicals, lithium-ion batteries store high levels of energy in a compact space. When they fail due to overcharging, the result is not just a dead battery but a thermal runaway event—essentially a small, uncontrolled fire. Children are often less aware of the subtle signs of battery failure, such as swelling, heat, or unusual odors, until it is too late. Furthermore, because the battery in this recalled model is integrated and non-removable, users cannot simply swap out a faulty power source. They must rely on the device’s internal management system to stop charging, which, in these cases, has failed. Therefore, any household with children who engage in imaginative play or music-related activities should treat this item with immediate caution, regardless of whether they have seen any signs of damage yet.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, you need to be absolutely certain that the microphone in your home is one of the units affected by this recall. Jazwares has identified a specific set of criteria for these products, and because they are designed to look like professional performance gear, they can easily blend in with other toys or electronics. The primary identifier is the branding. You are looking for an America's Got Talent microphone that is sold under the First Act brand. It is crucial to check the packaging if you still have it, as well as the device itself, for logos indicating both "America's Got Talent" and "First Act."
The physical appearance of the recalled microphones is quite distinct, which helps in identification. The unit is entirely black and features the America's Got Talent logo prominently on the front face. In terms of dimensions, these microphones are 10.5 inches long and weigh approximately one pound. They are not small handheld props; they are substantial enough to be felt as a serious toy. The device includes an integrated speaker located below the microphone head. On the back of this speaker housing, you will find the power button and control buttons. The microphone also features switches for treble, bass, and echo, which amplify the user's voice.
The most definitive way to confirm if your item is part of this recall is by locating the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) numbers. These codes are printed on the bottom of the integrated speaker at the base of the microphone. You need to look for one of two specific SKU numbers: AGT0002 or TMS0002. The AGT0002 code corresponds to the microphone sold individually, while the TMS0002 code indicates the set that includes a poster. If you cannot find these codes on the bottom of the speaker, it is possible you do not have the recalled model, but you should double-check carefully.
It is also important to note that these microphones are powered by a rechargeable, non-removable lithium-ion battery. This internal power source is what creates the fire hazard described in the recall. If your microphone has a removable battery compartment or uses standard AA batteries, it is likely not part of this specific recall. However, if you find the correct SKUs on the bottom of a black, 10.5-inch First Act America's Got Talent microphone with an integrated speaker and non-removable battery, you must stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to charge it further or use it for performances until you have contacted Jazwares for instructions on disposal and refund.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled America’s Got Talent microphones manufactured by Jazwares under the First Act brand, the most important thing you can do right now is stop using it immediately. This is not a situation where you should wait to see if the issue resolves itself or try to use it one more time for a recording project. Because the lithium-ion batteries inside these units have been confirmed to overcharge and ignite, continuing to power on the device—even briefly—increases the risk of a fire starting in your home. Think of this step as creating a safe distance between you and a potential hazard. Place the microphone in a cool, dry area away from flammable materials like curtains, bedding, or paper products until you are ready to dispose of it.
Once you have safely set the device aside, your next priority is to arrange for a full refund through Jazwares. The company has committed to providing consumers with a pre-paid gift card as their remedy, rather than offering a repair or replacement unit. To initiate this process, you need to register for the recall. You can do this by visiting their dedicated recall page at https://jazwares.com/recalls/agt-microphone or by navigating to www.jazwares.com and clicking on "Product Recall" at the bottom of the homepage. If you prefer speaking with a representative, you may call their toll-free number at 888-341-0881. These lines are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Have your SKU number ready when you contact them; it is located on the bottom of the integrated speaker at the base of the microphone and will be either AGT0002 (for the microphone only) or TMS0002 (for the bundle including a poster).
After you have successfully registered for the recall and received your instructions, you must dispose of the microphone correctly. Do not throw it in your ordinary household trash can. Lithium-ion batteries are classified as hazardous waste because they contain materials that can cause fires or environmental damage if processed incorrectly in standard landfills. Instead, you need to follow local and state regulations for electronic waste disposal. This typically means taking the item to a designated e-waste recycling center, a municipal hazardous waste drop-off site, or participating in a local electronics collection event. By disposing of it properly, you ensure that the battery is handled safely by professionals who have the equipment to neutralize any remaining charge and recycle the materials responsibly.
While you are going through this process, keep an eye out for any updates from Jazwares regarding the timeline for receiving your gift card. If you encounter any difficulties during registration or have questions about local disposal options in your specific area, the customer service team at the number provided above is there to help guide you through those logistical details. Your safety and peace of mind are the primary goals here, so taking these steps methodically ensures that you resolve the issue without putting your home or family at risk.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled America’s Got Talent microphones, it is important to know that there is no option for a simple repair or a direct replacement unit. Because the issue lies within the internal lithium-ion battery—a component that is integrated and non-removable—it cannot be safely fixed by a consumer or a standard technician. Instead, the remedy provided by Jazwares is a full refund. This approach ensures that the hazardous product is completely removed from your home and that you are made financially whole for the inconvenience. The company has structured this process to be straightforward, aiming to make it as easy as possible for you to resolve the issue without needing to wait for a new device.
To initiate your refund, you will need to contact Jazwares directly through one of their designated channels. You can call their toll-free number at 888-341-0881. These customer service lines are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to communicate in writing or need more time than the phone hours allow, you can email them directly at micrecall@jazwares.com. Alternatively, you may visit their website to learn more about the recall and register your claim. You can go to https://jazwares.com/recalls/agt-microphone or navigate to www.jazwares.com and click on "Product Recall" at the bottom of the page.
Once you have registered for the recall, Jazwares will issue your refund in the form of a pre-paid gift card. This method allows the company to process refunds efficiently while ensuring the funds are available to you shortly after your claim is approved. It is crucial that you follow the instructions provided during the registration process carefully to ensure your refund is processed without delay.
After you have received your refund and the pre-paid gift card, you must dispose of the recalled microphone properly. Do not throw it in your ordinary household trash. Because the device contains a lithium-ion battery, which can pose environmental and safety risks if discarded incorrectly, you should dispose of the microphone in accordance with local and state regulations. Many communities have specific e-waste recycling programs or hazardous waste disposal sites that can handle this safely. By following these steps, you not only protect your household but also contribute to safer waste management practices.
If you have any questions about the refund process or need assistance with disposing of the microphone, do not hesitate to reach out to Jazwares using the contact information provided. Their team is there to help you navigate this process smoothly and ensure that your safety concerns are fully addressed.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a favorite toy or prop, especially one that has brought joy and entertainment to your home. The America's Got Talent microphones recalled by Jazwares are designed to be fun, immersive, and high-quality, so the idea of discarding them can feel like losing a piece of that excitement. However, continuing to use these specific models despite the recall notice carries significant and dangerous risks that go far beyond simple inconvenience. The core issue lies in the internal lithium-ion battery, which has been identified as prone to overcharging. When this component fails, it does not merely stop working; it creates a volatile chemical reaction that can lead to ignition.
The reality of ignoring this warning is starkly illustrated by the incidents already reported to both Jazwares and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Three separate cases have already occurred where these batteries ignited, resulting in actual smoke and fire damage to household walls and floors. While it is a relief that no personal injuries have been reported in these specific instances, the potential for harm increases drastically with each charge cycle. A battery that ignites inside a plastic toy can rapidly escalate from a small flare-up to a sustained fire, especially if the device is left charging unattended overnight or placed near combustible materials like curtains, bedding, or wooden furniture.
Furthermore, the consequences of inaction extend beyond the immediate physical danger. If you continue to use the microphone, you are essentially gambling with your home's safety infrastructure. Lithium-ion fires can be difficult to extinguish and may release toxic fumes before they even burst into visible flames. By ignoring the recall, you are not just risking damage to the toy itself; you are risking irreversible damage to your property and the safety of your family members, including pets who might be nearby when a fire starts. The "wait and see" approach is particularly dangerous with electrical components because failure can happen suddenly without prior warning signs like overheating or swelling.
Ultimately, the path of least resistance—ignoring the recall—is actually the most costly route in the long run. While stopping use feels like a temporary loss of utility, continuing to use the device exposes you to the possibility of a catastrophic home fire that could far exceed the value of the microphone itself. The remedy offered by Jazwares is designed to remove this risk entirely and compensate you fully for your purchase. By taking action now, you eliminate the uncertainty and danger, ensuring that your entertainment does not come at the cost of your home's security. Do not let the convenience of ignoring the recall overshadow the severe potential consequences of a preventable fire hazard.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in the battery management systems of certain toy microphones, the underlying hazard—lithium-ion thermal runaway—is a growing concern for anyone who owns rechargeable electronics. These batteries are incredibly efficient and lightweight, which is why they are used in everything from smartphones to power tools, but they are also chemically volatile if damaged, overcharged, or manufactured with flaws. Understanding how to handle these devices daily can significantly reduce the risk of fire in your home.
First, always use the charger provided by the manufacturer or one that meets their exact specifications. Using third-party chargers, especially those that are cheap or damaged, can bypass safety circuits designed to stop charging when the battery is full. Overcharging is a primary trigger for the ignition events described in this recall. If you notice your device becoming unusually hot during use or charging, unplug it immediately and let it cool down on a non-flammable surface like tile or concrete, never on a couch, bed, or carpet where heat can become trapped.
Inspection is another critical layer of protection. Regularly check the power cords of your devices for fraying, exposed wires, or burn marks near the plug. For the battery compartment itself, look for any signs of swelling or bulging in the device’s casing. If a battery appears swollen, do not attempt to puncture it or force it out; instead, place the entire device in a non-flammable container and contact the manufacturer or a local hazardous waste facility for disposal instructions. Treating a swollen battery as a potential fire source is always the safer bet.
Furthermore, consider your home’s emergency preparedness. Since lithium-ion fires can produce dense smoke and toxic fumes before flames even appear, having working smoke detectors in every room and on every level of your home is essential. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the National Electrical Code recommendations for avoiding overloaded outlets, as electrical faults can also contribute to battery overheating.
Finally, stay informed about product safety beyond this single recall. Sign up for alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and subscribe to newsletters from major retailers where you shop. Manufacturers often issue voluntary recalls before incidents become widespread, giving you a crucial window to act. By treating every rechargeable device with respect and keeping up with safety updates, you protect your family not just from one product, but from the broader class of hazards associated with modern battery technology.