What was recalled
In January 2017, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving electric skateboards manufactured by Boosted. This action was taken to address specific defects found in a particular batch of their popular board designs. The recall specifically targets the 2nd Generation Boosted Dual+ electric skateboards. These boards are distinctive because they feature wooden decks with the brand name "Boosted" clearly printed on them. The issue is not with the entire line of Boosted products, but rather focuses on units equipped with specific lithium-ion battery packs that were originally installed as part of the standard equipment when these skateboards were sold.
To help consumers identify whether their board is part of this recall, it is important to look at several physical identifiers. The affected battery packs are attached to the bottom of the board inside a black thermoplastic enclosure. On the battery pack itself, you will see the model number "B2SR" printed along with the text "Boosted Lithium." Additionally, these packs feature a noticeable orange power button, which serves as a visual cue for identification. However, the most critical way to determine if your board is included in this recall is by checking the serial number. This number is located on a white sticker affixed to the bottom of the skateboard deck. The recall applies specifically to units with serial numbers that start with S2634 and continue through S2644.
The scope of this recall includes approximately 1,800 electric skateboards. These boards were distributed across the United States and were available for purchase both online directly from Boosted’s website and through various retail outlets between August 2015 and December 2016. Because these skateboards are high-performance personal transportation devices, many owners relied on them for daily commuting or recreational use. The presence of the defect in such a widely used consumer product underscores the importance of verifying your unit's serial number promptly. If your board falls within the specified serial number range and matches the other physical descriptions provided, it is included in this safety recall. Consumers are advised to stop using the product immediately if they confirm their board is part of this batch.
Understanding the exact parameters of the recall helps narrow down the potential impact. While Boosted produces several models, this notice is strictly limited to the 2nd Generation Dual+ model with the specified battery pack configuration. Other models or generations of Boosted skateboards are not affected by this particular safety notice. By focusing on these precise details, consumers can avoid unnecessary alarm while ensuring they take appropriate action for their specific device. The recall process is designed to be straightforward, offering a free replacement battery pack to those who qualify, thereby restoring the safety and functionality of the board without requiring the purchase of an entirely new unit.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about the fire hazard associated with the recalled Boosted Dual+ electric skateboards, we are looking at a specific failure mode within the lithium-ion battery pack. To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at what is actually happening inside that black thermoplastic enclosure on the bottom of your board. Lithium-ion batteries are excellent for storing energy in a compact space, which is why they power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, they rely on precise chemical stability to function safely. In this particular case, the issue stems from the battery pack overheating. This isn't just a matter of the battery getting warm during heavy use; it indicates that the internal components are failing to manage heat or electrical current correctly, leading to a thermal runaway condition.
Thermal runaway is a chain reaction where increasing temperature causes chemical reactions that generate even more heat. As the battery pack heats up beyond its safe operating limits, it begins to smoke. This smoke is a critical warning sign. It typically consists of electrolytes and other chemicals inside the cell vaporizing due to the intense heat. While Boosted has received two reports of these battery packs overheating and emitting smoke, no injuries have been reported so far. However, the potential for harm is significant if left unchecked. Smoke is often the precursor to ignition. If the heat continues to build without dissipation, the internal pressure can rise until the cell vents explosively or catches fire entirely.
The danger here isn't just about the fire itself, though that is a serious risk in any environment with flammable materials. There is also a secondary hazard related to the location of the battery. Because the pack is attached directly to the underside of the wooden skateboard deck, it is in close proximity to the rider’s feet and legs. If a battery were to ignite while you are riding or even when the board is parked near your body, the intense heat could cause severe burns. Furthermore, lithium-ion fires can be difficult to extinguish because they produce their own oxygen as they decompose, potentially allowing the fire to spread rapidly if it reaches other parts of the board's structure or nearby items.
It is important to distinguish between normal battery behavior and this defect. All rechargeable batteries generate some heat, but a properly functioning lithium-ion pack should not reach temperatures that produce visible smoke. The presence of smoke indicates a breach in safety mechanisms that are designed to prevent exactly this scenario. By identifying the overheating early, you are intercepting a potential catastrophe before it turns into an emergency. The CPSC and Boosted are treating this as a high-priority hazard because the transition from "hot" to "fire" can happen quickly once the thermal runaway process begins, leaving little time for reaction.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this recall consists of owners and riders of the second-generation Boosted Dual+ electric skateboards. Because the hazard stems from a specific component—the lithium-ion battery pack—anyone who purchased or received this board as original equipment is potentially exposed to the danger, regardless of how long they have owned it. The affected units are identified by serial numbers starting with S2634 through S2644 and feature a black thermoplastic enclosure with an orange power button. If you fall into this demographic, you are not just a potential customer; you are directly in the line of fire due to the physical nature of the defect.
Beyond mere ownership, certain types of users may face heightened vulnerability when dealing with lithium-ion battery failures. Electric skateboards are often used by individuals who value speed and maneuverability, which can sometimes lead to less rigorous pre-ride inspections. A rider who is focused on performance or commuting efficiency might inadvertently ignore early warning signs, such as unusual warmth emanating from the board while charging or during use. This delay in recognizing the problem allows the overheating process to progress unchecked, increasing the likelihood of smoke emission or ignition. The risk is particularly acute for those who charge their boards overnight or in enclosed spaces like bedrooms or garages, where a fire can start and spread before anyone is aware of it.
Furthermore, we must consider the physical context in which these incidents are most dangerous. While no injuries have been reported to date with this specific batch, the nature of lithium-ion battery fires involves rapid thermal runaway. For individuals who live in multi-unit housing, such as apartments or condominiums, the risk extends beyond personal property damage to neighbors and shared building safety. An electrical fire starting under a skateboard can quickly compromise walls, floors, or ceilings. Additionally, households with young children or pets are at greater risk because these groups may not recognize the danger of smoke or heat. A child might approach a smoking board out of curiosity, exposing themselves to toxic fumes or burns, while a pet could be startled or injured by the sudden event. The elderly or those with mobility issues might also struggle to evacuate quickly if a fire starts in a living area, making early detection and immediate cessation of use critical for their safety.
It is important to note that the risk is not limited to professional riders. Many owners of these boards are casual users who treat them as recreational toys or short-distance transport tools. These users may be less familiar with the technical aspects of battery maintenance, making them more reliant on the manufacturer’s safety protocols. When a component like a battery pack fails internally, it does not discriminate based on skill level; the hazard is present the moment the board is powered on. Therefore, the "who" at risk is anyone who has connected this specific battery pack to power or installed it in their board. The vulnerability lies in the silent progression of the defect—it can remain dormant for months before showing signs of overheating, meaning that even a well-maintained board is not immune if it contains the recalled unit.
In summary, the most at-risk individuals are those who own second-generation Boosted Dual+ skateboards with serial numbers in the S2634 to S2644 range. Within this group, risk is amplified by usage patterns that delay detection, such as overnight charging or infrequent visual inspections. The potential for harm is multiplied in shared living spaces and homes with vulnerable occupants who may not react quickly to early signs of fire. Recognizing that the hazard is inherent to the battery pack itself, rather than dependent on how skilled you are at riding, is key to understanding why immediate action is necessary for all owners, regardless of their experience level or intended use.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact Boosted for a replacement, it is critical to confirm that your specific skateboard falls within the scope of this recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a precise set of criteria that define the affected units. Because the issue is tied specifically to a component—the lithium-ion battery pack—rather than the entire board’s structural integrity or general wear and tear, identifying the exact model and manufacturing batch is essential. If your board does not match these details, it is likely safe from this particular fire hazard, though general safety precautions always apply when using any electric vehicle.
First, verify that you own a second-generation Boosted Dual+ electric skateboard. You can identify the brand by looking for the word "Boosted" printed directly on the wooden deck of the board. This is a distinctive feature of their design, but it alone does not confirm the recall status, as other models may share this branding. The key differentiator lies in the battery pack itself, which is housed in a black thermoplastic enclosure attached to the underside of the board.
To pinpoint whether your unit is affected, you must examine two specific locations: the battery pack and the bottom of the skateboard deck. On the battery pack, look for the printed text "Model number B2SR" and the phrase "Boosted Lithium." Additionally, the battery pack features a distinctive orange power button; if your board has a black or differently colored button with different labeling, it may not be part of this specific recall group.
However, the most definitive way to confirm inclusion in the recall is by checking the serial number. Locate the white sticker on the bottom of your skateboard deck. The serial numbers printed on this sticker that are subject to the recall start with S2634 and end with S2644. If your serial number falls within this range, your board contains the specific battery packs that have been reported to overheat and smoke. It is important to note that while Boosted has received two reports of overheating associated with these units, no injuries have been reported as of the recall date of January 12, 2017. Nevertheless, the potential for fire exists, making accurate identification a necessary first step in protecting your home and safety.
- Model: 2nd Generation Boosted Dual+
- Battery Labeling: Look for "B2SR" and "Boosted Lithium"
- Battery Button: Orange power button
- Serial Number Range: S2634 through S2644 (found on a white sticker on the bottom of the board)
If your skateboard does not have a serial number in this range, or if it lacks the specific battery labeling described above, you likely do not need to participate in this recall. However, if you are unsure or cannot locate the sticker, it is always safer to contact Boosted directly using the information provided in the remedy section to verify your unit’s status before continuing to use it.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled 2nd Generation Boosted Dual+ electric skateboards, your immediate priority is to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) identifies a specific risk: the lithium-ion battery pack can overheat and emit smoke, which creates a potential fire hazard. Because this issue involves electrical components that generate heat, taking action quickly is crucial. Please do not wait for a warning sign or a strange smell to appear before acting. Instead, follow these concrete steps to resolve the situation safely and efficiently. First, stop using the skateboard immediately. This is the most critical step in the process. Do not charge the board, do not attempt to ride it, and do not try to troubleshoot the battery yourself. The hazard described involves the battery pack overheating and smoking, which means that any continued use or charging could escalate the situation from a potential risk to an active incident. By disconnecting the device from its power source and keeping it away from flammable materials like curtains, furniture, or bedding, you are effectively neutralizing the danger until the remedy is applied. Next, contact Boosted to arrange for your free replacement battery pack. The company has established a specific remedy for this recall, which is to provide consumers with a new, safe battery pack at no cost. You can reach their support team by calling their toll-free number at 844-395-0070. Their customer service representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. When you call, be prepared to provide your serial number to verify that your specific unit is part of this recall batch. Alternatively, if you prefer to handle the process online, you can visit the Boosted website at https://boostedboards.com and navigate to the "Battery Pack Recall" section for more detailed information and instructions. Finally, follow the specific instructions provided by Boosted to return or swap out the defective component. Since the remedy is a free replacement battery pack, the company will guide you through the logistics of sending back the old unit and receiving the new one. Ensure that you keep any tracking numbers or confirmation emails from this process for your records. By completing these steps, you are not only protecting yourself from the reported incidents—two cases of overheating and smoking, though no injuries have been reported—but also ensuring that your electric skateboard can be used safely again once the correct battery is installed.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified one of the recalled Boosted Dual+ electric skateboards in your possession, the good news is that the remedy for this issue is straightforward and entirely free of charge. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that Boosted is offering a complete replacement of the problematic component rather than asking you to return the entire board or issuing a cash refund. Specifically, Boosted will provide you with a new lithium-ion battery pack at no cost. This approach is designed to be as convenient and low-friction as possible for consumers who have invested in their device and simply want to continue using it safely once the defect has been addressed.
To initiate this process, you do not need to navigate complex warranty claims or deal with third-party repair shops. You can contact Boosted directly through their dedicated recall support channels. The company has established a toll-free telephone line specifically for this recall, which you can reach at 844-395-0070. It is important to note the hours of operation for this service; the support team is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer digital communication or wish to review the details before speaking with an agent, you can visit the Boosted website at https://boostedboards.com. Once there, look for the "Battery Pack Recall" section to find further instructions and potentially initiate the claim online.
When you reach out to Boosted, be prepared to provide specific details about your board to help them verify your eligibility quickly. As noted in the recall description, the affected units are 2nd Generation Boosted Dual+ electric skateboards with "Boosted" printed on the wooden deck. You will need to locate the serial number, which is found on a white sticker on the bottom of the board. The recall applies specifically to serial numbers starting with S2634 through S2644. Additionally, you may be asked to confirm that your battery pack has an orange power button and bears the markings "Model number B2SR" and "Boosted Lithium." Having this information ready will streamline the interaction and ensure you receive the correct replacement part without unnecessary delays.
While waiting for your free replacement battery pack, it is crucial to adhere strictly to the safety instructions provided. You should immediately stop using the recalled skateboard. The hazard involves the lithium-ion battery pack potentially overheating and smoking, which poses a serious fire risk. Do not attempt to replace the battery yourself or use a third-party charger while waiting for the official replacement. By following these steps and utilizing the free remedy offered by Boosted, you can resolve the safety issue effectively and return to safe riding once the new equipment is installed.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your Boosted electric skateboard. These boards are expensive pieces of technology that offer a unique, convenient way to commute or enjoy the outdoors. When you first notice that the battery pack is acting slightly differently—perhaps it feels warmer than usual during a ride or holds less charge than before—it is easy to rationalize continuing to use it for just one more trip. You might think the issue will resolve itself or that you can simply manage the risk by being more careful. However, with lithium-ion batteries involved in a fire hazard scenario, ignoring the warning signs is not a matter of minor inconvenience; it is a significant safety gamble that you should not take lightly. The core danger lies in the nature of the defect described in this recall. The specific battery packs installed on these 2nd Generation Boosted Dual+ skateboards have been identified as capable of overheating and smoking. This is not a theoretical risk based on speculation; it is an observed reality. According to reports received by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the manufacturer, there have already been two confirmed incidents where these battery packs overheated and began to smoke. While it is reassuring that no injuries have been reported in these specific instances, the potential for harm escalates rapidly from "smoking" to "igniting." Lithium-ion batteries store a high density of energy in a small space. When internal components fail or short circuit, leading to thermal runaway, the temperature can spike dramatically and uncontrollably. The smoke you might see is often a precursor to flame. If you continue to use a skateboard with a compromised battery pack, you are essentially carrying a potential ignition source with you. This risk is amplified because you are often riding in public spaces—sidewalks, parks, or streets—where you may be near other people, pets, flammable materials like dry grass or car interiors, or your own home if you charge it there overnight. Furthermore, the physical act of riding adds complexity to the hazard. Electric skateboards are subjected to vibration, impact, and changes in temperature while in use. If the battery pack is already unstable, these stresses can accelerate the failure process. A sudden fire could cause you to lose control of the board, leading to a secondary accident where you fall and sustain physical injuries from the crash, independent of any burn injury from the fire itself. Ignoring this recall also means missing out on a free remedy. Boosted has committed to providing replacement battery packs at no cost. By waiting, you are not only risking your safety and property but also potentially complicating the resolution process. The longer you use a failing battery, the more likely it is to suffer catastrophic failure, which could damage the skateboard deck itself or leave you with a board that is no longer safe to operate even after the battery is replaced. The safest and most practical path forward is to heed the recall notice immediately, ensuring that your commute remains both enjoyable and secure.Staying safe: broader tips
When you own high-performance electric devices like the Boosted skateboards involved in this recall, understanding the specific risks of lithium-ion technology is just the first step. The broader lesson here applies to anyone who uses rechargeable gadgets that pack significant energy into a small space. Lithium-ion batteries are incredibly convenient and powerful, but they are also chemically active and sensitive to their environment. To keep your home and family safe from similar fire hazards in the future, it helps to understand how these batteries behave under stress and what simple habits can prevent those stresses from becoming emergencies.
One of the most critical factors in battery safety is temperature management. These power cells generate heat during both charging and discharging. If you leave your electric skateboard plugged in overnight, or if you charge it on a soft surface like a bed or couch that traps heat, you create an environment where thermal runaway can occur. Always charge your devices on a hard, non-flammable surface such as concrete, tile, or a dedicated fire-resistant charging bag. Never cover the device while it is charging, as this prevents heat from dissipating naturally. Additionally, avoid charging your electronics in extreme temperatures; do not leave them in a hot car during summer months or in an unheated garage during freezing winters, as temperature extremes can degrade battery integrity over time.
Physical care of the battery housing is equally important. The black thermoplastic enclosures on these boards are designed to protect the cells, but they are not indestructible. If you notice any swelling, bulging, or deformation in the battery pack or your device’s casing, stop using it immediately. Swelling indicates that gas is building up inside the cells, a clear sign of internal failure. Do not attempt to puncture, open, or repair a swollen battery yourself. Instead, treat it as hazardous waste and follow local guidelines for disposal or return it to the manufacturer if they offer a take-back program. Regularly inspect your devices for physical damage, such as cracks in the casing or exposed wiring, which can lead to short circuits.
Finally, make recall awareness a regular part of your home safety routine. Manufacturers sometimes discover defects after products are sold, and acting on those recalls is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or create an account on their website to receive notifications about specific product categories you own. You can also register your new electronics directly with the manufacturers when you purchase them; this ensures that if a safety issue arises, they can contact you directly rather than hoping you see a news report. By staying informed and handling your devices with respect for their power, you enjoy the benefits of modern technology without compromising your safety.