PCNA Recalls Power Banks Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

What was recalled

In early January of 2020, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving portable charging devices known as power banks. These products were sold under the brand name "Spare" and were distributed by PCNA. The specific items targeted in this recall are white, rectangular power banks designed to charge various electronic devices on the go. Each unit is equipped with a 10,000 mAh Grade A lithium-ion battery, which serves as the core energy storage component. Beyond standard charging capabilities, these particular models feature additional convenience elements, including LED indicator lights to show battery status and an integrated flashlight function.

Visually, the power banks are distinctively white in color and are decorated with various logos, indicating that they were likely sold as promotional items or custom-branded merchandise rather than generic retail units. This customization is a key identifier for consumers trying to determine if their device is part of this specific batch. The physical dimensions of the recalled units measure approximately 5 1/2 inches in length by 2 1/2 inches in width, making them compact enough to fit easily into pockets or small bags. On the back of each power bank, you will find a printed Purchase Order number, specifically PO number 1813582. This unique identifier is crucial for verifying whether your specific device falls under the scope of this recall.

While the CPSC announcement did not specify an exact total number of units sold globally, it confirmed that these products were widely distributed through various channels leading up to the recall date of January 23, 2020. Because these items often carry corporate or event-specific logos, they may have been given away at conferences, trade shows, or included in promotional packages. If you received a white power bank with a flashlight and LED lights that matches the physical description and bears the PO number 1813582 on its rear casing, it is highly likely to be one of the affected units. The recall emphasizes that even though these devices appear to be simple, standard charging accessories, the internal lithium-ion battery technology within this specific batch poses a serious risk that necessitates immediate attention.

It is important to note that the presence of the PO number and the specific physical characteristics are your primary tools for identification. Without these exact details, it is difficult to confirm if a power bank is part of this recall, as other manufacturers may produce similar-looking devices. However, if you have a white Spare-branded power bank with the described features and the specific PO number, you should treat it as part of this safety alert. The distribution history suggests that these units are still in circulation, having been sold or distributed prior to the January 2020 announcement, which is why ongoing vigilance and proper identification remain essential for consumer safety.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a failure within the lithium-ion battery cell contained inside the Spare Power Bank. To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at how these batteries work and what happens when they fail. Lithium-ion batteries store energy by moving lithium ions between two electrodes through an electrolyte. Under normal conditions, this process is stable and efficient. However, these cells are sensitive to physical damage, manufacturing defects, or internal short circuits that can cause the battery to overheat rapidly.

In the case of the recalled power banks, the specific mechanism at play is thermal runaway. This occurs when the heat generated inside the battery exceeds the rate at which it can dissipate into the environment. As the temperature climbs, the chemical reactions inside the cell accelerate, creating even more heat in a self-perpetuating cycle. The plastic casing of the power bank, while convenient for holding logos and providing grip, offers minimal protection against extreme internal temperatures. Once the threshold is crossed, the electrolyte can break down or ignite, leading to a fire.

This isn't just about a device getting warm during charging; it is about uncontrolled ignition. When a lithium-ion battery catches fire, it doesn't burn like wood or paper. Instead, it can erupt with intense heat and flame, often accompanied by smoke that contains toxic chemicals. The recall notice confirms that this physical failure has already resulted in at least one reported fire incident. While no injuries have been reported in this specific instance, the potential for harm is significant because these devices are often used close to people—plugged into walls while we sleep, left on nightstands, or carried in pockets and bags.

The risk is compounded by the fact that power banks are portable. Unlike a large appliance fixed in one location, a recalled power bank can travel with you. If it ignites inside a bag, it could damage your phone, laptop, or other valuables, and if it is near flammable materials like clothing or bedding, the fire can spread quickly. The LED indicators and flashlight features are useful tools, but they do not prevent the internal chemical instability that leads to ignition. Understanding that the hazard is internal and sudden helps explain why the remedy is immediate discontinuation of use rather than a simple software update or part replacement.

Who is most at risk

While the physical danger of a lithium-ion battery igniting does not discriminate based on age or occupation, the specific context in which the Spare Power Bank was distributed and used helps us understand who might be caught off guard by this hazard. These power banks were not sold through standard retail electronics counters but were provided as promotional items, likely attached to corporate logos or branding. This means the primary group at risk is anyone who received this device as a gift, a conference giveaway, or a company-issued tool for staying connected on the go.

The most immediate vulnerability lies in the nature of the product itself: a compact, portable energy source that people often leave plugged in overnight or carry in pockets and bags. Because these units measure about 5 1/2 inches long by 2 1/2 inches wide and feature LED indicators, they are designed to be unobtrusive and always ready. This convenience creates a false sense of security. Users may assume that because the device looks sleek and functions normally (charging their phone or turning on its flashlight), it is safe. The risk is not just in holding the device, but in what happens when the internal lithium-ion battery fails. For individuals who use these power banks to charge critical medical devices or rely on them for emergency communication during travel, a sudden failure or fire could have consequences far beyond property damage.

When we consider physical vulnerability, certain groups face higher stakes if an incident were to occur. Children are particularly at risk because they may not recognize the early warning signs of battery malfunction, such as unusual heat or swelling, and might continue to use a damaged device out of curiosity or necessity. Furthermore, their smaller hands and less developed reaction times make it harder to quickly dispose of a hot object. Older adults or individuals with limited mobility may also be more vulnerable to the secondary effects of such an incident. If a power bank ignites while being used on a bedside table or desk, the resulting fire can spread rapidly in a bedroom environment where escape routes might be obstructed by clutter or furniture. The smoke and heat from a lithium-ion battery fire are intense; for those with respiratory conditions like asthma, even a small incident could trigger severe health complications.

Additionally, people who use these power banks in enclosed spaces—such as inside a car glove compartment, under a pillow, or within a backpack filled with papers and clothing—are at increased risk of the fire taking hold before it is noticed. The reported incident involved one case of fire, which serves as a stark reminder that while no injuries have been confirmed, the potential for harm is real. Anyone who has ever carried this specific white power bank (with PO number 1813582) in a bag with flammable items like fabric or paper should be especially vigilant. The hazard is not about who you are, but about where and how you keep your backup power source.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you own a portable charger from the brand "Spare," it is important that you verify whether your specific device is part of this recall before taking any action. Because these power banks were often sold with custom branding or distributed as promotional items, they can look very different from one another at first glance. However, there are several distinct physical characteristics and printed details that will help you confirm if your unit matches the recalled inventory. Start by looking closely at the exterior of the device. The recalled models are consistently white in color, though they may be decorated with various logos depending on how they were originally distributed. This means that even if your power bank has a company logo, a university emblem, or a corporate design printed on it, it is still subject to recall if it meets the other criteria.

The most reliable way to identify this specific batch of products is by checking the text printed on the back of the device. You need to locate the Purchase Order number, which serves as the primary identifier for this recall. Look specifically for "PO number 1813582" printed clearly on the rear surface. If this number is present, your device is part of the recall and should be stopped immediately. If you do not see this specific PO number, it is less likely that your unit is included, but you should continue reading to check the other physical specifications.

In addition to the PO number, you can verify the model by examining the size and technical specifications. The recalled power banks measure approximately 5 1/2 inches in length and 2 1/2 inches in width. They feature a 10,000 mAh Grade A lithium-ion battery, which is a significant detail for identification. You should also look for specific functional indicators: the device will have LED indicator lights to show charge status and typically includes a built-in flashlight feature. If your white power bank matches these dimensions, contains this specific battery capacity, and bears the PO number 1813582, it is definitely one of the recalled units.

If you are unsure or cannot find the PO number, do not guess. The safest course of action is to contact the manufacturer directly for confirmation. You can reach PCNA at 800-860-1555 between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or visit their website at www.pcna.com and click on the “Recalls” link at the bottom of the page. They can help you verify your specific model against the recall list using additional details from your device.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

When you encounter a product recall involving a fire hazard, the most immediate and pressing concern is often how to resolve the situation without incurring additional costs or risking your safety. In this specific instance regarding the Spare Power Bank, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has outlined a clear path forward for consumers. It is important to understand that the remedy provided by the manufacturer, PCNA, focuses on removing the dangerous item from your possession entirely rather than attempting to fix it. Because the hazard involves the internal lithium-ion battery overheating and potentially igniting, these devices cannot be safely repaired or upgraded with a software patch. The only viable option offered is for you to stop using the product immediately and dispose of it properly.

The first step in this process is straightforward: you must unplug the power bank and cease all usage. Do not attempt to charge it, discharge it, or test it to see if it still works. The risk of ignition exists regardless of whether the device has been used extensively or sits unused in a drawer. Once you have confirmed that the device is no longer connected to any power source, you need to prepare it for disposal. However, this is not as simple as tossing it into your regular household trash bin. Lithium-ion batteries pose a significant risk if damaged or crushed in standard waste processing facilities, which can lead to fires in garbage trucks or landfills. Therefore, PCNA instructs consumers to dispose of the recalled power banks by strictly following local laws and regulations for the disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

You may be wondering about financial compensation or whether you can exchange this defective item for a new one. The recall information provided does not explicitly detail a refund, repair, or replacement program in the sense of sending you a new product or mailing you a check. Instead, the primary remedy is the cessation of use and safe disposal. This approach is common in recalls where the defect is fundamental to the product’s safety design and cannot be mitigated through minor repairs. The "remedy" here is essentially the avoidance of liability and harm by ensuring the dangerous unit is removed from your home. If you have questions about specific local disposal requirements or need further clarification on the recall status, PCNA has established dedicated channels for consumer assistance.

To get more information or to verify the specifics of the recall, you can contact PCNA directly. They are available by phone at 800-860-1555, and their customer service representatives are on duty from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. For those who prefer written communication or wish to review the official recall notice for additional context, you can send an email to CustomerService@leedsworld.com. Additionally, PCNA maintains a dedicated section on their website where you can find detailed recall information. Simply visit www.pcna.com and click on the “Recalls” link located at the bottom of the page. This resource will provide you with the most up-to-date and official guidance regarding this safety issue.

It is crucial to approach this situation with calm diligence. While the lack of a direct "buy-back" or replacement offer might initially feel disappointing, the priority in fire-related recalls is always public safety over customer convenience. By following the disposal guidelines and contacting the manufacturer if you have further questions, you are taking the correct steps to protect yourself and your community. Please do not delay in removing this item from your home, as the risk of fire, though reported as having caused no injuries so far, remains a serious potential threat.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is easy to overlook a small defect on a piece of electronics that still seems to charge your phone just fine. After all, the Spare Power Bank may have worked perfectly when you first bought it, and the risk of failure might feel abstract or unlikely. However, with lithium-ion batteries, the danger often lies in what you cannot see. The internal chemistry of these batteries is sensitive to physical damage, manufacturing flaws, or thermal stress. When a battery begins to fail internally, it does not always announce itself with dramatic smoke immediately. Instead, it may start by heating up more than usual while charging, which is your first subtle warning sign that the safety mechanisms are struggling to contain the energy.

If you continue to use a power bank that has already shown signs of instability, or one that you suspect might be part of this recall without checking, you are essentially leaving a potential fire hazard in your home, car, or office. The primary consequence of ignoring this defect is the risk of thermal runaway. This is a specific type of failure where the battery’s internal temperature rises uncontrollably, causing a chain reaction that can lead to ignition. As noted by the CPSC, there has already been at least one confirmed report of fire involving these units. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for serious harm remains real. A lithium-ion battery fire is not like a standard electrical short; it burns intensely, produces toxic fumes, and can be difficult to extinguish with water alone because the chemical reaction generates its own oxygen.

Beyond the immediate risk of fire, continuing to use a compromised power bank poses a significant burn hazard. The casing of these devices can become hot enough to cause second-degree burns upon touch, especially if you are holding it while it charges or if it is tucked into a pocket or bag where heat cannot dissipate. If the battery ruptures while in use, hot electrolytes and gases can escape, causing severe tissue damage to your skin and eyes. Furthermore, if this device ignites while charging another critical device like a smartphone or laptop, you risk losing that secondary equipment entirely, along with any data stored on it.

The social and environmental consequences also extend beyond personal injury. A fire started by an unattended power bank can spread to nearby furniture, curtains, or bedding, leading to substantial property damage and the loss of irreplaceable personal items. In multi-unit dwellings like apartments or dormitories, a single battery fire can trigger smoke alarms, disrupt neighbors, and potentially endanger everyone in the building. By ignoring the recall, you are not just risking your own safety; you are increasing the likelihood of collateral damage to your property and community. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your electronics are safe is worth far more than the convenience of keeping a faulty device. Taking action now prevents these cascading negative outcomes before they can begin.

Staying safe: broader tips

Lithium-ion batteries have become the standard power source for our modern lives, powering everything from our smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and portable chargers. While they offer incredible energy density and convenience, they also require a specific kind of respect when it comes to daily handling. Understanding how these cells work can help you prevent issues before they start. These batteries rely on chemical reactions to store and release energy. Under normal conditions, this process is stable, but external factors like extreme heat, physical damage, or using incompatible charging equipment can disrupt that balance. When the internal temperature rises too high, it can trigger a chain reaction known as thermal runaway. This is not just a minor malfunction; it is a rapid, self-sustaining increase in temperature that can lead to ignition. By adopting a few simple habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of such events occurring in your home.

First, always prioritize compatibility when charging your devices. It might be tempting to use an old or generic charger found in a drawer, but using accessories that are not certified for your specific device can lead to voltage irregularities. Overcharging occurs when the battery continues to receive power even after it is full, causing excessive heat buildup. This is why it is crucial to use only the original charger provided by the manufacturer or a replacement that meets the same safety standards. Additionally, avoid charging your devices on soft surfaces like beds, couches, or pillows while they are in use. These materials trap heat, preventing the device from dissipating warmth effectively. Hard, flat surfaces allow for better airflow and help keep the battery temperature within safe limits.

Physical inspection is another vital layer of protection. Regularly check your power banks, cables, and devices for any signs of wear and tear. Look for swollen batteries, which indicate gas buildup inside the cell—a clear sign that the battery is failing and should not be used. Frayed wires or exposed metal parts can also create short circuits, leading to sparks or heat generation. If you notice any unusual smells, such as a sweet, chemical scent, or if the device becomes unusually hot to the touch during charging, stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to puncture or open a swollen battery, as this can release toxic fumes and cause immediate fire.

Finally, proper disposal is just as important as proper usage. Lithium-ion batteries contain materials that are hazardous if they end up in a landfill, where they can be crushed and short-circuit. Never throw these items in the regular trash. Instead, take them to designated e-waste recycling centers or drop-off locations at many electronics retailers. Many communities also host periodic hazardous waste collection events. By disposing of batteries correctly, you protect yourself, your family, and the environment from potential fire hazards and chemical exposure. Staying informed about recall notices is also part of this broader safety strategy, ensuring that any known defects are addressed promptly by the manufacturer.