What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall involving specific underwater communication devices manufactured by Ocean Technology Systems. This action, announced on July 28, 2022, targets a particular line of electronic gear designed for use in SCUBA diving environments. The core issue lies not with the communication units themselves, but with the power source that keeps them running beneath the surface. Consumers need to know exactly which items are affected so they can verify their equipment against this list immediately.
The primary products involved in this recall are the PowerCom 3000D and PowerCom 5000D underwater communication devices, as well as the MilCom 6000D model. These devices are essential tools for divers who need to maintain contact while underwater. Printed clearly on the front of these units are the product names—PowerCom or MilCom—along with their specific model numbers. If you own any of these three models, you must check them against the battery issue described below.
The critical component at the heart of this recall is the RBLi-4 Lithium battery pack. This battery is used to supply power to both the PowerCom and MilCom devices. The recall covers two scenarios regarding this battery: first, it affects the RBLi-4 battery packs that were sold bundled together with the PowerCom or MilCom communication units; second, it also impacts the RBLi-4 batteries that were sold separately as standalone replacement power sources. Whether you bought a complete dive kit or purchased just the battery to replace an old one, if it is an RBLi-4 Lithium battery pack, it is part of this recall.
It is important to note that the recalled RBLi-4 battery packs are housed in waterproof casings designed to keep moisture out during dives. However, despite this waterproof housing, a defect allows water to leak into the device during a dive. This water then penetrates into the battery pack itself, leading to the electrical shorting issues that pose the fire hazard. The devices were marketed for use in all SCUBA diving applications, making this a widespread concern for anyone who engages in underwater exploration using Ocean Technology Systems gear. If you have any of these specific models paired with the RBLi-4 battery, either sold together or separately, your equipment is included in this safety notice.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look closely at the specific chain of events that turns a reliable piece of diving gear into a potential fire risk. The core issue lies in the intersection of two critical components: the waterproof housing designed to keep water out, and the lithium-ion battery pack that powers the device. Under normal circumstances, the RBLi-4 battery pack is encased in a waterproof housing specifically engineered to withstand the high pressures encountered during a SCUBA dive. This design allows divers to use their PowerCom or MilCom communication devices safely at depth without fear of immediate water damage.
However, the recall notice indicates that this seal is not perfect. During a dive, water can penetrate the housing and leak into the battery pack. This might seem counterintuitive given the "waterproof" label, but in high-pressure underwater environments, microscopic breaches or material fatigue can allow water to seep past the seals. Once inside the pack, the water does not immediately cause a problem because the device is off or in a low-power state. The danger emerges after the dive, when the unit is brought back to the surface and presumably turned on or charged.
This is where the chemistry of lithium-ion batteries becomes critical. When water penetrates the internal components, it can come into contact with the printed circuit board (PCB) that manages the battery’s power flow. Water is conductive; it allows electricity to flow where it shouldn’t. This leads to a short circuit within the battery pack. Normally, battery management systems are designed to detect such faults and shut down power to prevent damage. In this specific failure mode, however, the short circuit generates excessive heat. Because the battery is sealed inside its housing, that heat cannot dissipate quickly into the surrounding air.
The result is an ignition event. The CPSC report confirms that Ocean Technology Systems observed a small fire originating from the battery’s PC circuit board during testing. This is not just a theoretical risk; it is a verified physical outcome of water intrusion in this specific design. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is significant. Lithium-ion batteries can reach extremely high temperatures when they short-circuit, potentially igniting nearby materials or causing burns if handled improperly immediately after the incident. The hazard is particularly insidious because it does not happen during the dive itself, giving users a false sense of security while underwater, only to pose a risk once the equipment is back on land.
Understanding this mechanism underscores why simply "checking" the device for visible damage might not be enough. Water intrusion can occur without leaving obvious external signs until the internal components are compromised. This is why the remedy involves replacing the entire battery pack with a new unit that has been specifically sealed to prevent water leakage, rather than just repairing the existing one.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing potential danger from this recall consists of dedicated SCUBA divers who rely on underwater communication systems to maintain contact with their dive buddies or surface support teams. Specifically, individuals who own and operate the PowerCom 3000D, PowerCom 5000D, or MilCom 6000D devices are at risk. These units are not casual pool toys; they are specialized pieces of professional-grade equipment designed for use in all SCUBA diving scenarios. If you have purchased these communication devices either as part of a kit that included the RBLi-4 Lithium battery pack, or if you bought the batteries separately to power your existing unit, you fall directly into the affected population. The risk is not theoretical—it stems from a specific mechanical failure where water penetrates the battery housing during a dive, leading to a short circuit and ignition after the device has been removed from the water.
While the recall notice does not specify age or demographic vulnerabilities in the same way it might for a toy or medication, the nature of this hazard creates a unique context for vulnerability. The danger is most acute for divers who use these devices in deep or prolonged dives where equipment integrity is critical. For a novice diver, the reliance on clear communication is often higher due to less experience and greater anxiety, making the sudden loss of a reliable comms link potentially more stressful and dangerous than for an expert. Furthermore, the specific mechanism of failure—ignition occurring after the dive as the battery circuit board shorts—poses a risk not just in the water, but in the immediate post-dive environment. This could include inside a dive boat, a changing room, or a vehicle where flammable materials like wetsuits, gear bags, or upholstery are present.
Elderly divers or those with limited mobility may be at heightened risk during the remediation process if they are unaware of the recall. The remedy requires consumers to immediately stop using the device and remove the battery. For individuals who may have physical limitations that make handling small, tight-fitting lithium-ion batteries difficult, the act of removing the potentially compromised battery could be physically challenging or lead to improper handling. However, Ocean Technology Systems has provided clear contact channels, including phone support from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT (Monday through Thursday) and 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT on Fridays, to assist with these steps. It is crucial that all owners, regardless of their technical proficiency, recognize that the battery pack itself is the source of the fire hazard. The waterproof housing that protects the device during submersion inadvertently traps water inside the battery compartment after a dive if the seal fails or leaks, creating an environment where electricity and moisture interact dangerously once the device is out of the water.
Ultimately, anyone who has ever taken these specific PowerCom or MilCom units below the surface should be considered at risk until they have verified their serial numbers against the recall list and received the sealed replacement battery pack. The firm reports one small fire during testing, but given the chemical nature of lithium-ion batteries, the potential for a more significant incident in real-world conditions is why immediate action is required. Do not wait for an incident to occur; assume that if you have these devices, they are part of the problem until proven otherwise by the manufacturer’s remedy.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you are a SCUBA diver or work with underwater communication equipment, verifying whether your gear is part of this specific recall requires careful attention to brand names, model numbers, and battery configurations. The recall issued by Ocean Technology Systems on July 28, 2022, targets a very specific set of products used to facilitate communication while submerged. To determine if your device is affected, you need to look closely at the hardware itself, as the identification marks are printed directly onto the unit.
First, check the brand name on the front of your underwater communication device. The recalled units are manufactured by Ocean Technology Systems. You should see this branding clearly displayed on the front face of the equipment. Next, look for the specific model numbers printed on that same front panel. The recall encompasses two primary models of communication devices: the PowerCom 3000D and the PowerCom 5000D, as well as the MilCom 6000D. If your device does not bear one of these exact model designations alongside the Ocean Technology Systems brand, it is not part of this specific safety notice.
The critical component to verify is the power source associated with these devices. The hazard involves water leaking into the battery pack and causing a short circuit. Therefore, you must check if your device was sold with, or is currently using, the RBLi-4 Lithium battery pack. This recall applies not only to the communication devices listed above when they are paired with the RBLi-4 battery but also to the RBLi-4 batteries themselves if they were sold separately. The RBLi-4 packs are housed in a waterproof casing designed to supply power to the PowerCom and MilCom units. If you possess an RBLi-4 battery, regardless of whether it is currently installed in a device or stored separately, it falls under this recall.
To confirm your status, physically inspect the front of your communication unit for the printed model numbers (PowerCom 3000D, PowerCom 5000D, or MilCom 6000D) and verify the presence of the RBLi-4 battery pack. If you have any doubt about the compatibility or the specific battery type in your device, do not attempt to open the housing yourself. Instead, contact Ocean Technology Systems directly for confirmation. You can reach them by phone at 800-550-1984 between 6:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Thursday, and 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT on Friday, or via email at salessupport@oceantechnologysystems.com. They can help you identify your specific unit and guide you through the next steps for safety.
What to do — step by step
If you own any of the recalled underwater communication devices from Ocean Technology Systems, your immediate safety is the top priority. The recall notice clearly states that water can leak into these units during a dive, penetrate the battery pack, and cause the circuit board to short and ignite after you surface. Because this hazard involves fire risk, you should not wait for further instructions or assume the device is safe because it worked fine on previous dives. Instead, follow these concrete steps immediately to protect yourself, your gear, and your home. First, stop using the recalled equipment right now. This includes the PowerCom 3000D, PowerCom 5000D, MilCom 6000D, and any RBLi-4 Lithium battery packs, whether they are attached to the device or sold separately. Do not attempt to dive with them again, and do not leave them charging overnight. The risk is not just about the device failing; it is about a potential fire starting after the dive when you might be distracted or asleep. Next, carefully remove the battery from the communication device. Since the recalled RBLi-4 batteries are lithium-ion units housed in waterproof casings, handle them with care. Do not puncture, crush, or expose them to extreme heat while removing them. If the battery is stuck, do not force it in a way that could damage the casing. Once removed, place the battery in a safe, non-flammable location away from combustible materials like curtains, paper, or wooden furniture until you can dispose of it properly. Then, contact Ocean Technology Systems to arrange for your remedy. The company is offering a free replacement battery pack that has been specifically sealed to prevent water leakage. You can reach their support team by phone at 800-550-1984. Their hours are Monday through Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pacific Time, and Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pacific Time. Alternatively, you may email them at salessupport@oceantechnologysystems.com or visit their website at https://www.oceantechnologysystems.com/recall. If the direct recall page is difficult to find, you can go to https://www.oceantechnologysystems.com and click on "recall" at the bottom of the homepage. Finally, follow the firm’s instructions for disposing of the old lithium-ion batteries safely. Ocean Technology Systems will provide specific guidance on how to discard the recalled units in compliance with federal and state regulations. Do not throw these batteries in your regular household trash, as damaged lithium-ion batteries can cause fires in waste trucks and landfills. By following these steps, you eliminate the fire hazard entirely and ensure you have safe, updated gear for your future dives.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the affected underwater communication devices, it is important to understand that the remedy provided by Ocean Technology Systems is focused on fixing the specific safety defect rather than issuing a cash refund. The company has acknowledged that water can leak into the battery pack during dives, which may cause the circuit board to short and ignite. To address this, they are offering a free replacement battery pack that has been specifically sealed to prevent water leakage. This approach ensures that you can continue using your essential diving gear safely without having to purchase an entirely new unit.
To initiate this process, you must first take immediate action to secure your environment. Stop using the recalled PowerCom 3000D, 5000D, and MilCom 6000D devices right away. Remove the RBLi-4 Lithium battery pack from the device. It is critical that you do not attempt to use the old battery again or leave it in a place where it could potentially be used by someone else. The recalled batteries are the source of the fire hazard, and removing them eliminates the immediate risk while you arrange for the replacement.
Ocean Technology Systems will provide instructions on how to properly dispose of the old lithium-ion batteries in accordance with federal and state regulations. Disposing of these batteries incorrectly can be dangerous and is often illegal, so please follow their guidance carefully. Once you have removed the battery, contact the firm to receive your free, sealed replacement battery pack. You can reach Ocean Technology Systems by phone at 800-550-1984. Their customer service team is available from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Monday through Thursday, and on Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT. Alternatively, you can email them at salessupport@oceantechnologys.com or visit their website at https://www.oceantechnologysystems.com/recall. If the direct recall page is not immediately visible, you can go to https://www.oceantechnologysystems.com and click on "recall" at the bottom of the page for more information.
This remedy applies to all units sold with the RBLi-4 Lithium battery pack, as well as batteries sold separately. By accepting this free replacement, you ensure that your diving equipment remains functional and safe for future use. The company’s commitment to providing a sealed battery pack addresses the root cause of the hazard, allowing divers to return to their activities with confidence. Please act promptly to secure your replacement and dispose of the hazardous component responsibly.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is natural to feel hesitant about stopping a dive or halting your current activities when you receive a recall notice, especially if the equipment has been reliable in the past. However, with the Ocean Technology Systems underwater communication devices, ignoring this warning carries significant and potentially dangerous consequences. The core issue is not merely that the device might stop working; it is that the device can become an active fire hazard after you have finished using it. The recall highlights a specific mechanical failure where water penetrates the battery pack during a dive. This infiltration reaches the battery circuit board, causing a short circuit that can ignite the lithium-ion battery cells. While the company has reported only one small fire during internal testing so far, laboratory conditions are controlled and do not replicate the unpredictable variables of real-world diving environments.
The danger is particularly acute because it often occurs after the dive is over, a time when divers may be relaxed, packing gear, or sleeping. A lithium-ion battery that has shorted due to water intrusion does not always fail safely. Instead, it can enter a state known as thermal runaway, where the internal temperature rises rapidly and uncontrollably. This process can generate intense heat, release toxic fumes, and potentially cause the battery casing to rupture or explode. If this happens while the device is sitting in your garage, on a boat deck, or inside a vehicle trunk, it poses a serious risk of starting a larger structure fire. Unlike a simple electronic malfunction where the device just dies, a thermal event can spread to nearby flammable materials such as diving suits, tanks, or furniture, turning a minor equipment defect into a major home safety emergency.
Furthermore, continuing to use these devices assumes that the water resistance will hold up every single time, which is statistically unsafe. The battery packs are designed to be waterproof, but the recall confirms that this seal can fail under normal diving conditions. Once that seal is compromised by water leakage, the risk of ignition increases with every subsequent dive. You are essentially gambling that the short circuit will not occur on your next use or in the hours following it. There have been no reported injuries to date, but that is a fortunate statistic that should not be taken as a guarantee of safety. The potential for injury from burns, smoke inhalation, or secondary fires from an ignited battery is real and severe. By ignoring the recall, you are refusing to remove a known ignition source from your environment. The remedy provided—a sealed replacement battery pack—eliminates this specific pathway for water entry. Choosing not to use it leaves you exposed to a preventable hazard that could result in property damage or physical harm to you and your loved ones.
- Risk of Property Damage: An igniting lithium-ion battery can easily start a fire that damages your home, vehicle, or dive gear storage area.
- Potential for Physical Injury: While no injuries have been reported yet, the possibility of burns from hot components or exposure to toxic smoke remains a serious threat.
- Unpredictable Failure Timing: The fire hazard often manifests after the dive, meaning you may not realize the danger until it is too late to safely evacuate the area.
Staying safe: broader tips
When you live with complex electronic gear—especially equipment designed for high-pressure or underwater environments like SCUBA diving—routine maintenance is your best defense against unexpected failures. While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in battery seals, the broader principle applies to all high-performance dive computers and communication devices: water resistance is not permanent. The gaskets and seals that keep moisture out degrade over time due to UV exposure, chlorine, salt, and the physical stress of compression during descent. To stay safe, treat your equipment’s waterproofing as a service item rather than a lifetime feature. Consider having your dive electronics pressure-tested annually by a certified technician, just as you would with your regulator or buoyancy compensator. This proactive step can identify failing seals before they allow moisture to reach sensitive circuitry, potentially preventing the short circuits that lead to fires or device failure.
Beyond physical maintenance, vigilance regarding power sources is critical for any hazardous environment. Lithium-ion batteries, while powerful and lightweight, require careful handling. Never leave your gear charging unattended overnight, especially if it is in an enclosed space like a dive bag or locker. Ensure that your charging stations are placed on non-flammable surfaces away from flammable materials such as wetsuits, ropes, or dry bags. Additionally, inspect your batteries regularly for any signs of swelling, leakage, or damage to the casing. If a battery looks even slightly off, stop using it immediately and dispose of it according to local hazardous waste regulations. Do not attempt to repair or puncture a compromised battery, as this can release toxic fumes or ignite instantly.
Finally, make recall awareness a regular part of your dive planning routine. Product safety isn’t just about the gear you buy today; it’s about the gear in your closet from years past. Subscribe to email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and register your high-value equipment with manufacturers whenever possible. This ensures that if a safety issue is discovered later, you are among the first to know. By staying informed and treating your dive gear with the same respect you give to the ocean itself—acknowledging its power and requiring careful preparation—you significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that your time underwater remains as safe and enjoyable as possible.