Higdon Outdoors Recalls Battery Packs on XS Series Motion Waterfowl Decoys and Replacement Battery Packs Due to Fire and/or Burn Hazards

What was recalled

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a significant recall involving equipment used by waterfowl hunters, specifically targeting the XS Series motion decoys manufactured by Higdon Outdoors. This action covers both the primary battery packs that come with these decoys and the separate replacement battery packs sold for them. The issue is centered on lithium-ion batteries, which are common in modern electronic devices due to their high energy density, but in this specific instance, they pose a serious safety risk. The brand name "Higdon" appears prominently on both the products themselves and their original packaging, making identification straightforward for consumers who purchased directly from the manufacturer or authorized retailers.

The scope of this recall is quite broad, encompassing a wide variety of decoy models designed to mimic different types of ducks and geese. The affected items include the XS Pulsator series (available in Mallard Drake, Mallard Hen, Pintail, and Canada Goose configurations), the XS Battleship Swimmer series (including Mallard Drake, Mallard Hen, Pintail, Canvasback, and Bluebill variants), the XS Crazy Kicker (Mallard Drake with timer), the XS Floating Flasher (Mallard Drake), the XS Splashing-Flasher (Mallard Drake with timer), and the XS Swimmer Canada Goose. Additionally, several combo packs were included in this recall, such as the XS Pulsator Mallard Combo Packs (Drake/Drake and Drake/Hen) and the XS Pulsator and Swimmer Combo Pack (Drake/Drake). Crucially, the recall also explicitly lists standalone replacement batteries, identified by model number 99117, which is a 12-volt, 2.5Ah Li-ion battery from 2021 intended for all XS motion decoys.

A key identifier for all recalled items is a specific sticker on the battery itself. The top line of this sticker reads "Sun Li-ion Battery." If your battery bears this label, it falls under the scope of this recall, regardless of which specific decoy model it was paired with. The CPSC notes that approximately 50,033 units were involved in this recall, highlighting the widespread nature of the distribution. These products were sold through various channels, including online retailers and hunting supply stores, making it essential for hunters to check their equipment carefully. The decision to issue this recall was driven by reports of the batteries overheating during or shortly after charging, a phenomenon that can lead to fire and burn hazards, underscoring the importance of verifying your gear against this list.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a failure within the lithium-ion battery packs that power Higdon Outdoors’ XS Series motion waterfowl decoys. To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at what happens inside these batteries when they malfunction. Lithium-ion batteries are designed to store and release energy efficiently, but under certain conditions, they can enter a state known as "thermal runaway." This occurs when the battery overheats, either while it is actively charging or shortly after it has been removed from the charger. In the case of the recalled Higdon products, the firm has identified that specific units are prone to this overheating event.

When a lithium-ion battery begins to overheat, the chemical reactions inside the cell accelerate uncontrollably. This generates intense heat in a very short period, often causing the battery casing to swell, leak, or even rupture. For hunters who spend hours in blinds or stands, often in close proximity to these decoys, this presents a dual threat. First, there is the direct risk of a burn. If the battery pack gets hot enough to touch, it can cause severe skin burns almost instantly. Second, and more critically, the heat generated by the failing battery can ignite surrounding materials. The recall data confirms that nine fires have already occurred as a result of this defect, with seven of those incidents causing property damage.

The specific mechanism here is particularly insidious because it does not always happen during active use. While you might expect a fire only while the decoy is moving, these batteries can fail "soon after charging." This means that even if you have finished setting up your gear and are no longer touching the device, the battery could still reach dangerous temperatures. The recalled items all feature a sticker reading "Sun Li-ion Battery," which helps identify them, but the danger lies in the internal chemistry of these specific cells rather than just their external appearance.

It is important to note that while the physical damage to property has been documented, no injuries have been reported to date. However, the potential for injury remains high due to the nature of lithium-ion failures. These batteries can release flames and toxic fumes rapidly. By stopping use immediately and contacting Higdon Outdoors for a replacement, you are preventing a potentially catastrophic event from occurring in your hunting environment, whether that is near your home, in a vehicle, or out in the field.

Who is most at risk

The primary group affected by this recall consists of waterfowl hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who own specific models in the Higdon XS series. This includes users of the XS Pulsator, XS Battleship Swimmer, XS Crazy Kicker, and XS Floating or Splashing Flasher decoys. Because these devices are specialized equipment used for hunting, the risk is concentrated among individuals who actively use them in field conditions. If you do not own one of the 12-volt motion decoys listed above with a battery labeled "Sun Li-ion Battery," your risk from this specific defect is effectively zero.

While any user interacting with a defective lithium-ion battery faces potential harm, certain physical vulnerabilities can elevate the danger. Lithium-ion batteries that overheat or catch fire release intense heat and toxic smoke in a very short amount of time. For elderly individuals or those with limited mobility, the ability to quickly evacuate a scene if a battery ignites may be compromised. If a decoy is charging near a tent, cabin, or vehicle where someone is resting, a delayed reaction could lead to severe burns or inhalation injuries. Similarly, households with young children present a heightened risk profile. Children are naturally curious and may not recognize the warning signs of a failing battery, such as unusual warmth, swelling, or smoke. If a recalled battery pack is stored in a common area where children play, they might handle the device, potentially triggering the defect or suffering direct contact burns if the casing becomes hot enough during operation.

Furthermore, the context in which these decoys are used adds to the risk. Hunting often takes place in remote locations, far from immediate emergency services. If a battery ignites while charging in a blind or a standalone hunting shelter, the isolation can turn a manageable incident into a life-threatening situation. The recall notes that seven of the reported fires caused property damage, suggesting that the fuel load in these environments—dry grass, wooden structures, or fabric covers—can accelerate fire spread. Therefore, the risk is not just to the user, but to their surrounding environment and any companions who may be nearby. It is crucial for all owners, regardless of age or physical ability, to treat this defect with extreme seriousness because the consequences are immediate and potentially catastrophic.

• Hunters using XS Pulsator, Swimmer, Crazy Kicker, or Flasher models with 12V batteries.
• Anyone storing these decoys in living spaces, vehicles, or tents where people sleep.
• Households with children who might inadvertently interact with charging equipment.
• Elderly individuals or those with mobility issues who may struggle to escape a fast-moving fire.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether your waterfowl hunting equipment is part of this recall requires a close inspection of both the product itself and its packaging. The primary trigger for this recall is not just the brand name, but specifically the type of lithium-ion battery used in these units. You need to look for products manufactured by Higdon Outdoors that are part of the XS Series of motion waterfowl decoys or standalone replacement battery packs. These items are designed to attract ducks and geese, so they often feature realistic plumage patterns such as Mallard Drake, Mallard Hen, Pintail, Canvasback, Bluebill, or Canada Goose designs.

The most definitive way to confirm if your item is affected is to examine the battery pack directly. Whether the battery is installed inside a decoy body or purchased separately as a replacement, it will have a sticker label on it. You must look closely at the top line of text on this sticker. If the text reads "Sun Li-ion Battery," the item is subject to this recall. This specific labeling applies to all XS series models listed in this notice, including the XS Pulsator, XS Battleship Swimmer, XS Crazy Kicker, and XS Floating or Splashing Flasher models. Even if your decoy looks different due to the bird pattern, if it contains a battery labeled "Sun Li-ion Battery," it is part of the safety concern.

If you do not have immediate access to the battery to check the label, you can cross-reference the item by its model number. The recall affects specific 12-volt models including 50033 (XS Pulsator, Mallard Drake), 50044 (XS Pulsator, Mallard Hen), 50534 (XS Pulsator, Pintail), 52053 (XS Battleship Swimmer, Mallard Drake), 52064 (XS Battleship Swimmer, Mallard Hen), 52533 (XS Battleship Swimmer, Pintail), 52624 (XS Battleship Swimmer, Canvasback), 52243 (XS Battleship Swimmer, Bluebill), 53012 (XS Crazy Kicker, Mallard Drake with timer), 53072 (XS Floating Flasher, Mallard Drake), 53077 (XS Splashing-Flasher, Mallard Drake with timer), 50734 (XS Pulsator, Canada Goose), 52753 (XS Swimmer Canada Goose), 50053 (XS Pulsator Mallard Combo Pack Drake/Drake), 50054 (XS Pulsator Mallard Combo Pack Drake/Hen), 54034 (XS Pulsator and Swimmer Combo Pack Drake/Drake), and 99117 (XS Battery 12v 2.5Ah Li-ion from 2021). If you have any of these model numbers printed on the packaging or the device, it is included in the recall.

When checking your gear, look for the Higdon brand name prominently displayed on both the product and its original packaging. While the recall does not specify a single retail location or price point, these items were sold as hunting equipment. If you have an XS motion decoy from this era that uses a battery labeled "Sun Li-ion Battery," err on the side of caution and assume it is part of the recall until you can confirm otherwise by contacting the manufacturer.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have identified that you own one of the recalled Higdon Outdoors XS series motion waterfowl decoy battery packs or the associated replacement batteries, you do not need to keep them, nor should you attempt to fix them yourself. The remedy provided by the manufacturer is straightforward and designed to remove the risk entirely: Higdon Outdoors is offering free replacement battery packs and chargers to all affected consumers. This means your primary financial outlay for resolving this safety issue should be zero. The company has established a dedicated support channel specifically to handle these returns and replacements efficiently, ensuring that you are not left with defective equipment while waiting for a solution.

To initiate this process, you must contact Higdon Outdoors directly. They have set up multiple convenient ways for you to reach their customer service team. You can call them toll-free at 800-962-0656. It is important to note their hours of operation, as you will need to call during business hours: from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or want to keep a record of your request, you may also email them directly at recall@higdonoutdoors.com. For those who prefer navigating the web for instructions, Higdon Outdoors has created a specific landing page for this recall. You can visit their main website at www.higdonoutdoors.com and click the link labeled "Recall," or you can go directly to the dedicated URL at www.higdonoutdoors.com/recall for more detailed information on how to proceed.

When you contact them, be prepared to provide specific details about your product to ensure you receive the correct replacement. The recall applies to a wide variety of XS series models, including the Pulsator, Swimmer, Crazy Kicker, and Flasher lines in various configurations like Mallard Drake, Mallard Hen, Pintail, Canvasback, Bluebill, and Canada Goose. Each recalled battery pack features a sticker on the battery with the top line reading "Sun Li-ion Battery." Confirming this label is crucial because it identifies the specific batch of batteries subject to the recall. By providing your model number (such as 50033, 52053, or 99117 for the standalone battery) and confirming the battery label, you help the company verify that your item is indeed part of this specific safety campaign.

The "why" behind this generous remedy is rooted in the severity of the hazard. The CPSC reported that these lithium-ion batteries can overheat while charging or shortly after, leading to fires and burn risks. In fact, Higdon Outdoors has received 20 reports of overheating, including nine fires, seven of which caused property damage. Because the defect is internal to the battery chemistry and construction, repair is not a viable option. Replacement is the only safe path forward. Do not attempt to return the defective batteries for a cash refund unless explicitly instructed to do so by customer service; the standard procedure is to provide you with new, safe equipment at no cost. This approach ensures that your hunting gear remains functional while eliminating the fire hazard associated with the old components.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is easy to look at a recalled item and think, “I haven’t had any problems yet, so I will just keep using it.” With hunting gear, that mindset is particularly dangerous because the environment where these products are used—often remote wetlands in cold weather—offers little room for error. The core issue with the Higdon Outdoors XS series battery packs is that the lithium-ion cells inside can overheat while they are charging or immediately after you have finished charging them. This is not a minor inconvenience; it is a fundamental failure of the battery’s thermal management system. When you ignore this recall and continue to charge these specific units, you are essentially leaving a ticking time bomb in your blind or on your truck dashboard.

The consequences of ignoring this warning range from property damage to severe personal injury. According to the official report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Higdon Outdoors has already received 20 reports of these battery packs overheating. Of those incidents, nine resulted in actual fires. While no injuries have been reported to date, the absence of injury data does not mean the risk is low; it simply means that by luck or quick action, people have avoided harm so far. The reality is that a lithium-ion battery fire can ignite rapidly and burn at extremely high temperatures. If you are using these decoys in a marsh blind made of fabric, cardboard, or wooden structures, a spark from an overheating battery can quickly turn your entire setup into a conflagration.

Consider the setting: you are likely alone or with family members in a secluded area, surrounded by dry vegetation, gasoline-powered equipment, and other flammable materials. If a battery pack catches fire while charging on a hard surface like a truck bed or inside a confined space like a cooler, the heat can melt plastic components, release toxic fumes, and spread to nearby fuel sources. The recall data notes that seven of the reported fires caused property damage. For many hunters, this means losing thousands of dollars worth of expensive decoys, blinds, and electronics in seconds. But beyond the financial loss, the physical danger is real. Burns from hot battery casings or exposed electrical components are a documented risk of these defects.

Ignoring the recall also puts your peace of mind at risk. The anxiety of wondering if this specific batch will be the one to fail can detract from the experience you worked hard to plan. More importantly, it exposes you and anyone nearby to unnecessary peril. The remedy offered by Higdon Outdoors is straightforward: free replacement battery packs and chargers. By waiting to replace them, you are gambling with safety for the sake of temporary convenience. The defect is inherent to the manufacturing of these specific units, meaning it will not go away on its own; it will only get worse as the battery cycles degrade. Do not wait for a fire to start before acting. The cost of inaction is far higher than the effort it takes to contact the company today.

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