What was recalled
If you own outdoor power equipment from SKIL that relies on their 40-volt battery system, it is important to verify whether your specific battery pack is part of a significant safety recall initiated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The entity responsible for this action is Chervon North America, the parent company behind the SKIL brand. They have issued a voluntary recall affecting specific 40V 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion Batteries. These are not general accessories; they are critical power sources designed for use with all SKIL 40V tools. The core of this recall is that only the battery itself is affected, not the lawnmowers or other tools that may have been sold alongside them.
To determine if your battery is included, you must look closely at the physical unit and its markings. The recalled batteries are clearly labeled with "SKIL" and "PWRCORE 40" printed directly on the casing. Crucially, the recall targets units manufactured before May 1, 2021. You can identify your manufacturing date by locating the nameplate on the top of the battery pack, near the terminals. On this plate, you will find a nine-digit serial number. The first three digits of this serial number serve as the manufacturing date code. If your code matches any of the following—911 (Nov-19), 912 (Dec-19), 026 through 031 (Jun-20 through Nov-20), or 121 through 124 (Jan-21 through Apr-21)—your battery is subject to this recall.
These batteries, identified by the model number BY8708-00, were sold in two primary ways. First, they were available for purchase individually, allowing customers to buy them separately from any tool. Second, they were bundled in combination kits with specific SKIL 40V Brushless mowers. Specifically, these batteries came with the SKIL 40V Brushless 20-in Push Mowers (Model #PM 4910-10) and the SKIL 40V Brushless 20-in Self-Propelled Mowers (Model #SM4910-10). The recall was officially announced on December 19, 2024. While the exact total number of units sold globally is not specified in the immediate recall summary, the scope is defined by these specific model numbers and date codes. If your battery bears the BY8708-00 model number and falls within the pre-May 2021 manufacturing window, it is part of this safety action.
The hazard, explained
When you pick up a power tool, you expect the energy stored in its battery to flow cleanly into the motor to drive the blade or auger. However, with the SKIL 40V 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion batteries recalled by Chervon North America, that controlled flow can fail catastrophically. The core issue lies in the internal chemistry of the lithium-ion cells. These batteries rely on a delicate balance between their anode and cathode, separated by a thin barrier to keep them from touching while allowing ions to pass. In this specific recall, reports indicate that these batteries are prone to overheating. This isn’t just a matter of the tool getting warm during heavy use; it is a systemic failure where the battery generates excess heat internally, far beyond normal operating temperatures.
So, what physically happens when a lithium-ion battery loses its thermal stability? As the internal temperature rises, the chemical reactions inside can accelerate uncontrollably. This creates a feedback loop known as "thermal runaway." The heat generated by the short circuit or chemical instability causes more heat, which in turn degrades the separator between the positive and negative layers. Once that separator fails, the cells short-circuit directly against each other. This releases massive amounts of energy in seconds, turning the battery pack into a source of intense heat rather than a power supply.
The consequences of this mechanism are severe and immediate. The recall data from Chervon confirms that these failures manifest as melting, smoking, and actual fire. The plastic casing of the battery can soften or melt under this extreme heat, releasing toxic fumes and exposing live electrical components. This is why you might see smoke pouring from the unit before a flame even appears—the materials inside are breaking down chemically. For users, this presents two distinct dangers: burns and smoke inhalation. The CPSC records show that among the 100 reported incidents, eight involved minor burns or smoke inhalation. These injuries often occur when a user is holding the tool during operation, as the heat radiates directly into their hands or the fumes drift upward toward their face.
Beyond personal injury, the fire hazard extends to your home and property. The 49 reports of related property damage highlight that these batteries do not just fail harmlessly; they can ignite surrounding materials like grass, wood, or upholstery if left unattended or if the heat ignites nearby combustibles. Understanding this mechanism is crucial because it transforms the battery from a simple power source into an unpredictable heat bomb. It is not a slow wear-and-tear issue you can ignore until the tool stops working; it is a sudden, violent failure mode that requires immediate cessation of use to prevent harm.
Who is most at risk
Understanding who is most vulnerable to this specific recall requires looking at both the physical nature of the hazard and the demographics likely to own these tools. The SKIL 40V 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion Batteries, particularly those manufactured before May 1, 2021, pose a risk that extends beyond simple equipment failure. Because the primary hazard involves thermal events—ranging from overheating and melting to smoking and fire—the individuals most at risk are those who interact with the tool in close proximity during charging or operation, as well as those who may be less able to react quickly to sudden emergencies.
First and foremost, the primary users of these batteries are homeowners and gardeners engaged in outdoor maintenance. This includes individuals using SKIL 40V Brushless 20-inch Push Mowers (Model #PM 4910-10) or Self-Propelled Mowers (Model #SM4910-10), as well as those using other compatible SKIL 40V outdoor power equipment. These users are at risk not only during the active use of the mower but also during the critical charging phase. Lithium-ion battery failures often occur when the cell structure breaks down internally, leading to thermal runaway. If a user is standing nearby while the battery is plugged in, or if they attempt to move a hot, malfunctioning battery pack, they are directly exposed to high temperatures and potential flames.
Certain demographic groups face heightened vulnerability due to physiological factors. Children who may be present in the yard during mowing activities are at significant risk. They might approach a hot battery out of curiosity or accidentally knock over a charging station. Their thinner skin is more susceptible to severe burns, and their smaller size means they could be closer to the source of any ignition. Similarly, elderly users or those with mobility issues may find it difficult to react swiftly if a battery begins to smoke or ignite. The recall data notes eight reports of minor burns and smoke inhalation; for older adults with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD, even mild smoke inhalation can trigger serious health complications far beyond the initial burn injury.
Furthermore, households with pets are also indirectly at risk. Animals are often attracted to warm objects and may investigate a charging battery, leading to burns or exposure to toxic fumes released during thermal events. The 49 reported incidents of property damage highlight that this is not just a personal injury risk but a household safety issue. Fire can spread rapidly from a garage, shed, or porch where these batteries are commonly charged. Therefore, anyone storing these batteries in enclosed spaces, near flammable materials like dry leaves, paper, or wooden structures, increases the danger to their entire property and family.
Ultimately, the risk is concentrated among owners of specific SKIL models with battery date codes from November 2019 through April 2021. If you fall into any of these categories—recent mower owner, caregiver for a child or elderly relative, or pet owner—you should treat this recall with urgency. The combination of close physical contact during use and the unpredictable nature of lithium-ion fires makes immediate action essential for everyone in your household.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own SKIL brand outdoor power equipment, particularly lawnmowers or other yard tools that run on the 40-volt system, there is a chance you have one of the affected batteries in your garage or shed. The recall specifically targets SKIL 40V 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion Batteries manufactured before May 1, 2021. Because these batteries look very similar to current, safe models, it is crucial to verify exactly which unit you have before making any assumptions. The primary identifier is the model number BY8708-00. You will also see the words "SKIL" and "PWRCORE 40" printed clearly on the battery casing. If your battery has a different model number or lacks these specific markings, it is likely not part of this particular recall, but always double-check by looking for the manufacturing date code.
To determine if your battery is subject to this safety notice, you need to locate the nameplate on the top of the battery pack, right near the battery terminals. This small label contains the critical information: the model number and a nine-digit serial number. The first three digits of that serial number serve as your manufacturing date code. You must compare these three digits against the specific list provided by Chervon North America to see if your unit falls within the recalled timeframe. The following codes indicate batteries made during the affected period:
- 911: Manufactured in November 2019
- 912: Manufactured in December 2019
- 026: Manufactured in June 2020
- 027: Manufactured in July 2020
- 028: Manufactured in August 2020
- 029: Manufactured in September 2020
- 030: Manufactured in October 2020
- 031: Manufactured in November 2020
- 121: Manufactured in January 2021
- 122: Manufactured in February 2021
- 123: Manufactured in March 2021
- 124: Manufactured in April 2021
It is also helpful to know how these batteries were originally sold, as this can aid in your memory if you cannot find the original receipt. These recalled units were sold individually for use with all SKIL 40V tools. Additionally, they came packaged in combination kits with specific SKIL 40V Brushless 20-in Push Mowers (Model #PM 4910-10) or SKIL 40V Brushless 20-in Self-Propelled Mowers (Model #SM4910-10). If you purchased one of these mower kits, the included battery is part of this recall. Remember, only the battery itself is recalled, not the tools they power. If your battery’s date code does not appear in the list above, or if it was manufactured after May 1, 2021, it is considered safe for continued use.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled SKIL 40V 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion batteries, your immediate safety depends on taking swift and deliberate action. The recall notice from Chervon North America is clear: you must stop using these specific battery packs right now. Do not charge them, do not install them in your lawnmower or other outdoor tools, and do not attempt to use them for any purpose. Lithium-ion batteries that have been identified as a fire hazard can fail unpredictably. By removing the power source from your equipment, you eliminate the risk of the battery overheating, melting, smoking, or catching fire while it is in use or sitting idle. This is not a precautionary suggestion; it is the first and most critical step in protecting your home and family from potential burns or property damage. Once you have safely set the battery aside, your next move is to register for the recall. You can do this online by visiting www.skil.com/recalls. This step is essential because it officially logs your participation in the remedy program. When you register, Chervon will arrange for a battery collection kit to be sent to you. This kit is designed to make the return process safe and straightforward. You should not try to mail the recalled battery yourself using standard postal services or commercial couriers, as damaged lithium-ion batteries can pose significant risks during transport. The provided collection kit ensures that the battery is contained and handled according to safety regulations until it reaches Chervon’s facility. After you receive the collection kit, carefully place the recalled battery inside it following the instructions provided. Seal the package securely and send it back to Chervon using the prepaid shipping label included in the kit. Do not wait for Chervon to provide your remedy before sending the battery back; the recall program is structured so that they will issue a free replacement battery or a refund for the price of the battery only upon the return of the recalled item. If you have questions about the process, need assistance with registration, or want to know which option—replacement or refund—you prefer, you can contact Chervon North America directly. Call their toll-free number at 833-476-5325 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or email them at BY8708-00recall@na.chervongroup.com. By following these steps, you ensure that the hazard is removed from your property and that you receive the full benefit of the recall remedy without unnecessary delay or risk.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
Chervon North America has committed to providing two distinct remedies for this recall: a free replacement battery or a full refund for the price you paid for the battery. It is important to understand that the company does not offer a simple "mail-in and wait" service where they send you a new battery before receiving yours back. Instead, the process is designed with safety as the primary concern. You must first return the recalled battery using the specific collection kit provided by Chervon. Only after your returned battery has been received will you be issued your chosen remedy. This sequential approach ensures that hazardous batteries are removed from homes and handled by professionals, reducing the risk of fire or injury during transit or storage at your residence. To initiate this process, you have several convenient ways to contact Chervon North America. You can call their toll-free number at 833-476-5325, which is staffed from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. For those who prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you may email BY8708-00recall@na.chervongroup.com. Additionally, the entire recall process can be managed online by visiting www.skil.com/recalls or navigating to the "PRODUCT RECALLS" section at the top of www.skil.com. These digital channels are often the most efficient way to start, as they typically provide immediate access to the battery collection kit and clear instructions for shipping. When you register for the recall, Chervon will send you a special battery collection kit. This kit is not a standard shipping box; it is designed specifically to contain lithium-ion batteries safely during transport. You should place your recalled SKIL 40V 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion Battery into this kit and follow the included instructions for return shipment. Do not attempt to ship the battery in regular packaging or through standard mail without the proper safety materials provided by Chervon, as damaged batteries can pose a significant risk to postal workers and facilities. Once Chervon confirms receipt of your returned battery, they will promptly send out either a brand-new replacement battery or issue a refund for the original purchase price. While the choice between a refund and a replacement is yours, consider your needs carefully. If you own other SKIL 40V tools that rely on this battery type, a replacement may be the more practical option to maintain your workflow. However, if you are considering switching brands or no longer need the tool, a refund might be preferable. Remember, the remedy covers only the battery itself, not the entire tool kit or mower, even if the battery was sold as part of a combination package like the SKIL 40V Brushless 20-in Push Mower (Model #PM 4910-10) or the Self-Propelled Mower (Model #SM4910-10). The recall specifically targets the BY8708-00 battery model, so ensure you are only returning the correct component.What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable to want to avoid the hassle of stopping your project mid-stream or dealing with the logistics of returning a battery. You might think that since the mower has worked fine for months, it will continue to work fine tomorrow. However, with lithium-ion batteries that have developed an internal defect capable of overheating, time is not on your side. Ignoring this recall does not make the hazard go away; in fact, it significantly increases the likelihood and severity of a dangerous event. The core issue here is thermal runaway. When these specific SKIL 40V 5.0Ah batteries fail, they do not just stop working; they generate intense heat internally. If you continue to charge or use them, you are essentially keeping a ticking clock running. The consequences of ignoring this warning range from property damage to serious personal injury. We are not talking about a minor inconvenience like a dead battery. According to the recall data from Chervon North America, there have already been 100 reported thermal incidents involving these specific batteries. These are not theoretical risks; they are real-world events where the batteries have melted, smoked, and ignited. In nearly half of those reports, the fire resulted in property damage, meaning your garage, shed, or home could become the next target. A single overheating battery can ignite nearby combustible materials, such as lawn clippings, gasoline cans, or wooden storage shelves, leading to a house fire that spreads far beyond the original source. Beyond property loss, the human cost is significant and immediate. The recall reports include eight instances of minor burns and smoke inhalation. While "minor" sounds reassuring, it represents eight different people who were caught off guard by a sudden explosion or flare-up while trying to use their tools. Smoke inhalation can be particularly dangerous in enclosed spaces like garages, where ventilation is poor. If you ignore the recall, you are gambling with your physical safety and that of your family. A fire starting from a power tool battery can escalate rapidly, giving you only seconds to react before escape routes are blocked by smoke or flames. Furthermore, once a lithium-ion battery begins to overheat, it often becomes unstable and difficult to control. You cannot simply "turn it off" if the chemical reaction inside has started to spiral out of control. Waiting until you see visible smoke is already too late; the damage may have already been done. The safest path is to accept the inconvenience of the recall process now, which includes a free replacement kit and battery, rather than risking a catastrophic failure later. Your peace of mind is worth far more than the few hours it takes to register for the recall and send the defective unit back.Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain SKIL batteries, the underlying issue—thermal runaway in lithium-ion power tools—is a growing concern for any homeowner who relies on cordless equipment. Lithium-ion batteries are incredibly convenient, offering high power density and no memory effect, but they require careful handling to prevent the kind of thermal incidents described above. The most critical rule is to always use the charger provided by the manufacturer or one that is explicitly certified as compatible. Using third-party chargers can bypass the battery management system’s safety protocols, leading to overcharging, excessive heat buildup, and potentially catastrophic failure. Never attempt to charge a battery that feels warm to the touch, has been dropped, or shows visible signs of damage like cracked casing or exposed cells.
Ventilation and temperature control play a surprisingly large role in battery longevity and safety. Lithium-ion cells are sensitive to extreme temperatures; charging them in direct sunlight, inside a hot garage during summer, or in an unheated shed during winter can degrade the internal chemistry and increase the risk of leakage or fire. Always store and charge these batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials like paper, wood shavings, or gasoline. If you notice any swelling in the battery pack, stop using it immediately. Swelling indicates that gas has built up inside the cell due to internal failure, which is a precursor to rupture. Do not try to puncture or compress a swollen battery; place it in a non-flammable container and contact the manufacturer for disposal instructions.
Beyond individual product care, proactive vigilance is your best defense against unexpected hazards. Many dangerous defects remain unknown until a recall is issued, so make checking for recalls a regular part of your home maintenance routine. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and register your products directly with manufacturers after purchase. This ensures you receive immediate notifications if a safety issue arises. Additionally, consider installing smoke detectors in your workshop or garage area where these tools are charged and used. While no alarm can prevent a battery fire, early detection can save your home and give you crucial time to evacuate safely. Remember, when it comes to high-energy power tools, prevention is far easier—and safer—than dealing with the aftermath of an electrical fire.