What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall affecting specific night hunting headlamps sold under the Wicked Lights brand. This action involves products distributed by AllPredatorCalls.com, a retailer specializing in outdoor and hunting equipment. The recall is not a blanket ban on all Wicked Lights products; rather, it targets a precise subset of items manufactured for night hunting scenarios where reliability and safety are critical. Understanding exactly which units are involved is the first step in ensuring your gear is safe to use.
The specific models included in this recall are the ScanPro iC Gen 1, Gen 1.5, and Gen 2 night hunting headlamps. These devices were designed for low-light conditions, featuring an adjustable elastic cloth headband for secure fitting, along with an elevation adjustment lock knob to aim the light beam. The units also include an intensity control knob, a zoom focus bezel for adjusting the spread of the light, and a rubberized halo shield. The lighting system itself consists of built-in green, red, and white LEDs, or in some configurations, single-color LEDs. Each headlamp was sold with lithium-ion rechargeable batteries and a storage carrying case to keep the equipment protected when not in use.
To identify whether your specific unit is part of this recall, you must look closely at the physical markings on the device. The recalled black headlamps feature "ScanPro" printed on the elastic headband and "Wicked Lights" on the body of the light. Crucially, the inclusion in the recall depends on the style code printed inside the battery compartment. Only headlights that do not have an "F" suffix in their style code are included in this recall. If your unit has an "F" suffix, it is not part of this specific safety notice.
The scope of this recall covers units sold by AllPredatorCalls.com. While the provided records do not specify the exact total number of units sold or the geographic regions where they were distributed beyond the U.S. government context, the hazard affects any consumer who purchased these specific models directly from the retailer. The recall was officially announced on February 16, 2023, indicating that this issue has been known to the manufacturer and the agency for some time. If you purchased a ScanPro iC headlamp without the "F" suffix from AllPredatorCalls.com, it falls within the scope of this safety alert.
This recall highlights the importance of verifying model numbers and style codes on electronic outdoor gear. Even if your headlamp appears identical to one that is safe, missing or incorrect suffixes in the style code can mean the internal wiring lacks the necessary safety protections. Consumers are urged to check their devices immediately against the description above to determine if they own a recalled unit.
The hazard, explained
At its core, this recall addresses a specific and dangerous failure in the electrical wiring of the Wicked Lights night hunting headlamps. According to reports filed with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the root cause is an internal short circuit within the wire that powers the device. When an electrical short occurs, it creates a path of least resistance that bypasses the normal flow of current intended for the LED lights. Instead of powering the illumination system efficiently, this unintended shortcut causes a rapid and intense buildup of heat within the wire itself.
This is not merely a matter of the battery draining faster or the light flickering; it is a thermal event. As electricity encounters resistance in a shorted wire, that energy is converted into heat. In the case of these headlamps, the generated heat becomes significant enough to melt the insulation and potentially the plastic components surrounding the wiring. This melting process is precisely what creates the burn hazard for users. The physical breakdown of the material means that hot, molten plastic or exposed, superheated metal contacts can come into direct contact with human skin.
The severity of this hazard is underscored by the fact that the manufacturer has already received fourteen reports of wires heating up and melting, including two documented burn injuries. These incidents likely occurred during use when the headlamp is secured to the user’s forehead or face. Because hunting headlamps are designed to sit close to the skin for extended periods, a sudden thermal event can result in immediate contact burns. The heat generated by a short circuit can rise very quickly, often faster than a person can react and remove the device, leading to second-degree burns or other tissue damage.
While battery-related fires are a known risk with lithium-ion technology, this specific issue is distinct because it stems from the wiring harness rather than the battery cell itself. General safety knowledge tells us that lithium-ion batteries can be volatile if punctured or shorted internally, but here the danger is transmitted through the connecting wires to the user’s body. The melting wire acts as a direct heat source against the skin, turning a piece of hunting gear into an accidental burn injury mechanism. This explains why the remedy is not just a simple software update or battery replacement, but a physical repair involving a new battery compartment with a safety power circuit designed to prevent such shorts from occurring in the first place.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing risk from this recall consists of outdoor enthusiasts who rely on Wicked Lights ScanPro headlamps for night hunting. These are not casual accessories; they are specialized tools used in low-light environments where visibility is critical for both safety and success. The users involved are typically hunters who venture into remote or rugged terrain after sunset, depending entirely on the reliability of their gear to navigate safely and operate equipment effectively. Because these headlamps are worn directly on the head, any malfunction has immediate and intimate physical consequences. The hazard stems from a short in the wire that causes it to heat up and melt. For someone wearing this device for hours at a time during a hunt, the potential for prolonged exposure to that heat is significant.
While anyone using the recalled unit is technically at risk of injury, certain individuals may be more vulnerable due to the nature of the activity and their physical condition. Hunters often spend long periods in cold weather or physically demanding situations. In such environments, people may wear thick gloves or have reduced dexterity, which can make it difficult to quickly recognize subtle signs of malfunction, such as slight warmth or unusual smells, before they escalate into a burn. Furthermore, the adrenaline and focus required for hunting can sometimes cause users to overlook minor discomforts until they become severe. This delayed reaction time means that a small heat issue could result in a more serious burn injury by the time the user realizes something is wrong.
Additionally, while the recall data does not specify age demographics, general safety principles suggest that older adults or those with thinner skin may be at higher risk for severe burns from electrical heating elements. The skin on the forehead and face can be sensitive, and prolonged contact with a melting wire could cause deeper tissue damage than what might occur on other parts of the body. There is also a secondary risk to bystanders or other hunters who might inadvertently touch the heated components if they are adjusting the light or sharing equipment, although the primary danger remains to the wearer. The fact that AllPredatorCalls.com has already received reports of burn injuries confirms that this is not a theoretical risk but a tangible threat to those currently using these specific models.
It is important to note that the risk is specifically tied to units without an "F" suffix in the style code on the battery compartment. This distinction matters because it helps users identify whether they are part of the vulnerable group. If you own a ScanPro Gen 1, Gen 1.5, or Gen 2 headlamp and cannot verify the presence of this safety modification, you fall into the category of individuals who should act immediately. The vulnerability here is not just about age or physical strength, but about the lack of awareness that the device has a known defect. Many users may continue to use their headlamps for seasons without incident, creating a false sense of security. However, the potential for injury exists with every use, making it crucial for all owners, regardless of their experience level or physical condition, to treat this recall with serious urgency.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you enjoy night hunting or spend time outdoors after dark, you may own one of the affected headlamps without even realizing it poses a risk. Identifying the specific product is the most critical first step in keeping yourself safe. The recall targets Wicked Lights-branded night hunting headlamps sold through Allpredatorcalls.com. Specifically, these are the ScanPro models, including the Gen 1, Gen 1.5, and Gen 2 versions. If your headlamp does not bear the "Wicked Lights" branding or is not a ScanPro model from this specific retailer, it is likely not part of this recall.
To confirm whether your device is included, you need to look at both the physical appearance and the technical markings on the unit. The recalled headlamps are black in color and feature an adjustable elastic cloth headband. On the body of the light itself, you should see the "Wicked Lights" logo clearly printed. Additionally, the word "ScanPro" will appear on the elastic headband strap. These units come with a variety of visible features: an elevation adjustment lock knob, an intensity control knob, and a zoom focus bezel. They also include a rubberized halo shield around the light source. The headlamps may have built-in green, red, and white LEDs, or they may be single-color LED models. They were originally sold with lithium-ion rechargeable batteries and a storage carrying case.
The most important detail for determining eligibility is found inside the battery compartment. You must locate the style code printed there. The recall explicitly includes only those headlights that do not have an "F" suffix in their style code. If you see an "F" at the end of the code, your unit has been updated with a safety power circuit and is not part of this specific recall. However, if there is no "F" suffix, your headlamp is subject to this recall due to the potential for wire shorting and melting.
If you are unsure where to find these details or cannot locate the style code, do not guess. The safest approach is to contact AllPredatorCalls.com directly. You can reach their customer support team toll-free at 888-826-9683 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to sales@allpredatorcalls.com or visit https://allpredatorcalls.com/scanpro-recall for further assistance. They can help you verify the exact status of your device based on its unique markings.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Wicked Lights night hunting headlamps, your immediate safety is the only priority right now. The Consumer Product Safety Commission and AllPredatorCalls.com have identified a serious burn hazard caused by a short in the wire that can heat up and melt. Because this defect poses a direct risk of injury to you and anyone else who might use the device, you must take action immediately. Please follow these steps carefully to ensure your safety and resolve the issue with your equipment.
Step 1: Stop using the headlamp immediately. Do not attempt to turn it on, charge it, or test it again. The hazard is electrical in nature; a short in the internal wiring can cause the wire to heat up rapidly. Continuing to use the device, even for a short time, increases the risk that the wire will melt further or cause a burn injury. Put the headlamp aside in a safe, cool place where it cannot be accidentally turned on by you or others in your household. This is not a precautionary measure; it is a required safety step because there have already been reports of wire heating up and melting, including two confirmed burn injuries.
Step 2: Locate your style code. To ensure you are part of this specific recall, you need to verify that your unit is included. Look at the battery compartment on the body of the light. Inside this compartment, there should be a printed style code. You are only affected by this recall if your style code does not have an "F" suffix. If your code ends in "F," your unit is safe and not part of this specific defect batch. However, if there is no "F" suffix, you must proceed to the next step. This verification is crucial because the remedy provided is specific to the units with the faulty power circuit.
Step 3: Contact AllPredatorCalls.com for a free repair. The company has issued a clear remedy for this recall: they will provide a free replacement battery compartment that includes a safety power circuit. This repair addresses the root cause of the hazard by replacing the component where the short occurs. Do not try to fix the wire yourself, as this could void any safety guarantees or cause further damage. Instead, reach out to the manufacturer through one of their official channels. You can call their toll-free number at 888-826-9683 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to sales@allpredatorcalls.com or visit their website at https://allpredatorcalls.com/scanpro-recall. You can also navigate to the "Recall" tab on www.wickedhuntinglights.com or www.allpredatorcalls.com for detailed instructions.
Step 4: Follow the return or repair instructions. Once you have made contact, the company will guide you through the process of sending your unit in or receiving the replacement part. Keep any tracking numbers and confirmation emails safe until the process is complete. The goal is to get a functional headlamp back that does not pose a burn hazard, so do not resume hunting or outdoor activities with the recalled unit until you have received and installed the free replacement battery compartment.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified one of the recalled Wicked Lights night hunting headlamps in your possession, it is important to know that the company behind this product has established a clear and accessible remedy for you. AllPredatorCalls.com is not asking you to simply discard a potentially useful piece of equipment; rather, they are offering a specific repair solution designed to address the underlying safety issue. The core of their remedy is a free replacement battery compartment that includes a critical safety power circuit. This component is specifically engineered to prevent the shorting of wires that can cause the device to overheat, effectively neutralizing the burn hazard associated with the original units.
To initiate this repair process, you will need to reach out directly to AllPredatorCalls.com. The company has set up dedicated channels to make this as straightforward as possible for affected consumers. You have three primary ways to contact them: by phone, by email, or through their website. For those who prefer speaking with a representative, the toll-free number is 888-826-9683. Customer service representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication, you can send an email to sales@allpredatorcalls.com. Alternatively, you may visit their online resources at https://allpredatorcalls.com/scanpro-recall, or navigate to the Recall tab on www.wickedhuntinglights.com and www.allpredatorcalls.com for detailed instructions.
When you contact them, be prepared to provide specific details about your unit to ensure it is covered by this recall. Remember that this remedy applies only to headlamps without an "F" suffix in the style code printed on the battery compartment. You can verify this by looking inside the battery compartment of your device. If your unit matches the description and lacks that suffix, you should be eligible for the free replacement part. The company is handling the logistics of this repair, meaning you should not incur costs for the replacement battery compartment itself.
It is worth noting that while the recall notice details a repair via a replacement part, it does explicitly mention a refund option for those who may prefer a full return of their purchase price instead of a repair. However, since the official remedy described focuses on the free replacement battery compartment with a safety power circuit, your primary path forward should be to request this repair unless you speak directly with customer service and are offered an alternative. Do not assume a refund is automatic; always confirm your specific options when you make contact.
The reason this specific repair is being offered is rooted in the nature of the defect. The issue lies within the wiring, which can heat up and melt under certain conditions. By replacing the battery compartment with one that has an integrated safety power circuit, AllPredatorCalls.com aims to cut off power before a dangerous temperature is reached. This approach allows you to continue using your headlamp for its intended purpose—night hunting—while ensuring that the electrical system is safe. It is a practical solution that addresses the hazard without requiring you to buy an entirely new device, provided you are willing to go through the steps of sending in your old compartment or receiving the new one as directed by their support team.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to look at a product recall notice and feel like it is just another administrative hurdle, something to file away for later or, worse, to dismiss entirely. When you are out in the field, whether you are hunting at dawn or navigating a dark trail, stopping to deal with a manufacturer’s notice can feel inconvenient. However, ignoring this specific recall regarding Wicked Lights Night Hunting Headlamps carries tangible, physical risks that go far beyond mere inconvenience. The core issue is not a malfunction that simply stops your light from working; it is an active thermal hazard embedded within the device itself.
The fundamental danger lies in the electrical short circuit within the wire. When this short occurs, the wire does not just fail to conduct power efficiently; it generates excessive heat. In a confined space like a headlamp body, where components are packed tightly together, this heat has nowhere to dissipate safely. As the recall facts indicate, this heating process is severe enough to melt the surrounding materials. If you continue to use a recalled unit, you are essentially walking around with a small, unpredictable heater strapped to your forehead. The melting wire can breach the internal casing and come into direct contact with your skin or the elastic headband that rests against your face.
The consequences of this failure are not theoretical. AllPredatorCalls.com has already documented 14 separate reports of wires heating up and melting while in use. More concerning is the fact that these mechanical failures have resulted in two confirmed burn injuries to consumers. These are not minor irritations; they are actual physical harms sustained by people who likely trusted their gear to be safe. Ignoring the recall means you are accepting a statistical probability of injury based on evidence that others have already suffered real pain and damage from this exact same defect.
Beyond the immediate risk of burns, continuing to use these headlamps compromises your safety in other critical ways. A melting wire can lead to sudden power loss or erratic behavior in the LED lights. If you are relying on green, red, or white LEDs for night hunting or navigation, a sudden flicker or total failure could leave you blind in hazardous terrain. This secondary risk—losing illumination when you need it most—can lead to falls, disorientation, or an inability to spot wildlife or obstacles, creating a cascade of dangerous situations that the initial electrical fault triggered.
There is also the long-term financial and practical cost of inaction. The remedy offered is a free replacement battery compartment with a safety power circuit designed specifically to prevent this short from happening again. By ignoring the notice, you are not only risking your health but also potentially voiding any future support or warranty service for that unit. When the inevitable failure occurs without the recall remedy, you may be forced to purchase an entirely new headlamp rather than receiving a simple, safe repair. The choice is clear: accept the free safety upgrade now, or risk personal injury and greater expense later.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in a particular line of headlamps, the underlying issue—a short circuit leading to overheating—is a common thread in many electronic devices we rely on daily. Understanding how to prevent similar hazards with other gear can help you enjoy your outdoor activities with greater peace of mind. The first and most critical step in any electronics safety routine is vigilance. If you notice unusual warmth, strange odors, flickering lights, or changes in battery life, stop using the device immediately. These are often early warning signs of internal component failure before a fire or burn occurs. Never ignore these subtle cues; they are your device’s way of asking for help.
Proper maintenance of lithium-ion batteries is another vital area where consumers can take control. These power sources are efficient but sensitive. Always use the charger provided by the manufacturer or one that matches the exact voltage and amperage specifications. Using incompatible chargers can cause cells to overcharge, leading to swelling, leakage, or thermal runaway. Store your batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and flammable materials. If a battery ever becomes swollen, punctured, or leaks, do not attempt to recharge it. Dispose of it according to local hazardous waste guidelines immediately. Regularly inspect the charging ports and cables for fraying or damage, as compromised wiring is a primary cause of the shorts mentioned in this recall.
When purchasing new gear, especially for high-intensity uses like night hunting, always verify that products have undergone rigorous safety testing. Look for certifications from recognized third-party laboratories such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek). These marks indicate that the product has been tested against specific safety standards for electrical and fire hazards. Additionally, make it a habit to register your new purchases with the manufacturer. This simple step ensures that if a defect is discovered later, you will be contacted directly rather than having to search through news articles or government databases on your own.
Finally, keep your emergency preparedness plan up to date regardless of your hobbies. Ensure you have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in your home and any cabins or RVs you frequent. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. By combining smart purchasing habits, regular equipment checks, and a proactive approach to home safety, you create a robust defense against the unpredictable nature of electrical failures. Stay alert, stay informed, and prioritize safety over convenience whenever you are dealing with powerful electronic devices.