What was recalled
In the summer of 2016, a significant safety alert was issued regarding a specific line of personal transportation devices that had become increasingly popular in households across the country. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that Boscov’s, a well-known department store chain, was recalling certain self-balancing scooters, commonly known to the public as “hoverboards.” This recall specifically targets products manufactured under the brand name Orbit. These devices are designed with two wheels positioned at either end of a central platform, allowing users to ride them by shifting their body weight. They are powered entirely by internal lithium-ion battery packs, which are essential for their operation but also the source of the safety concerns that led to this action.
The specific items included in this recall are Orbit brand self-balancing scooters that were sold exclusively through Boscov’s retail locations and potentially its online channels during the period leading up to July 2016. While the official record does not list every single model number or the exact total quantity of units sold, it is clear that these were consumer-grade devices marketed for personal use. The hoverboards came in a variety of distinct color options to appeal to a wide range of buyers, including black, blue, gold, green, red, and white. Regardless of the exterior color, every affected unit shares a common identifying feature: a black sticker located on the underside of the scooter that clearly displays the word “Orbit.” This branding is the primary way consumers can verify if their device falls under this specific recall notice.
The context of this recall is important for understanding its scope. Boscov’s served as the retailer for these Orbit-branded scooters, meaning that anyone who purchased a hoverboard from Boscov’s during the relevant timeframe should check their device immediately. The announcement was made on July 6, 2016, signaling an urgent need for consumers to take action. Although the CPSC noted that no incidents of injury or fire had been reported at the time of the recall, the potential risk associated with the lithium-ion battery packs overheating was deemed serious enough to warrant a full product withdrawal. This proactive step by both the manufacturer and the retailer highlights the importance of vigilance when it comes to electronic devices that rely on high-capacity batteries for mobility.
If you purchased a self-balancing scooter from Boscov’s around this time, it is crucial to identify your model accurately. Look for the Orbit branding on the underside sticker as described. The recall does not apply to hoverboards sold by other retailers or under different brand names, so verifying the point of sale and the specific brand markings is the first step in determining whether your device is affected. This distinction helps ensure that consumers are only taking action on products that actually pose a risk, avoiding unnecessary confusion with safe, compliant models sold elsewhere.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific mechanical and chemical failure within the power source of these self-balancing scooters. The recalled Orbit brand hoverboards rely on lithium-ion battery packs to store and deliver the high bursts of energy required to keep the device balanced and moving. While lithium-ion technology is common in everything from smartphones to electric cars, it requires precise engineering to remain safe. In this instance, the battery packs contained within the Boscov’s sold units have a defect that allows them to overheat beyond their safe operating limits.
To understand why this is so dangerous, it helps to look at what happens inside a lithium-ion cell when things go wrong. These batteries store energy in a dense chemical form. When the internal temperature rises too high—a condition known as thermal runaway—the chemicals inside can become unstable. The insulation materials separating the positive and negative components of the cell may break down, leading to an internal short circuit. This short circuit generates even more heat, creating a vicious cycle that escalates rapidly.
For a consumer, this process manifests in alarming ways. As the battery cells reach critical temperatures, they can begin to vent gases, which is why reports indicate the products may start smoking. If the heat continues to build without a release valve to safely dissipate it, the pressure inside the sealed battery pack increases until the casing ruptures. This can lead to the battery catching fire or, in severe cases, exploding with significant force.
The risk is particularly acute because these hoverboards are designed to be ridden directly over their power sources. Unlike a laptop that sits on a desk, a self-balancing scooter places the user’s weight and body temperature in close proximity to the very battery pack that might fail. If the device ignites while in use, the rider has little time to react before being exposed to intense flames or shrapnel from an exploding battery. This is why the CPSC has identified this as a serious fire hazard, even though no incidents have been reported yet. The potential for injury is severe, ranging from burns and smoke inhalation to traumatic physical injuries from explosions.
It is important to note that these failures are often unpredictable. A battery might function perfectly for weeks or months before suddenly developing the internal defect that leads to overheating. There is rarely a warning sign other than unusual warmth during charging or use, making it impossible for users to rely on intuition alone. The only way to eliminate this risk entirely is to stop using the device and remove the faulty power source from your home.
Who is most at risk
When we discuss the safety of self-balancing scooters, commonly known as hoverboards, it is important to recognize that the primary group at immediate physical risk includes anyone who owns or operates these specific Orbit brand devices sold by Boscov’s. Because the hazard stems from the internal lithium-ion battery packs overheating, smoking, catching fire, or exploding, the danger is not limited to a specific demographic in terms of age or ability, but rather applies directly to users and those in close proximity during operation or charging. These units were marketed toward a broad audience, including children, teenagers, and adults seeking recreational transportation. Consequently, families with younger members are particularly vulnerable, as children may lack the mature judgment required to recognize early warning signs of battery failure, such as unusual heat or odors, before a catastrophic event occurs.
The risk is further compounded by the nature of the product itself. Hoverboards are designed to be ridden while in motion, meaning that a battery failure while the device is active could lead to falls and secondary injuries, in addition to burn risks from fire or explosion. This makes the user’s safety paramount. However, the hazard extends beyond just the rider. Lithium-ion battery incidents often occur during charging, which means individuals who leave these devices plugged in overnight or unattended are at significant risk. In such scenarios, family members sleeping in adjacent rooms, individuals with mobility issues who may have difficulty escaping quickly, or pets in the vicinity could all be endangered by smoke inhalation or structural fire damage.
It is also crucial to note that while no incidents have been reported as of this recall date, the potential for harm exists due to the unpredictable nature of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries. These batteries can fail without prior warning signs if the internal components are defective. Therefore, anyone who has purchased a black, blue, gold, green, red, or white Orbit hoverboard from Boscov’s is potentially at risk, regardless of how carefully they use the device. The vulnerability is not about user error but about the inherent instability of the recalled battery packs. Parents should be especially vigilant if their children share living spaces with these devices, as the combination of flammable materials in bedrooms and a potential ignition source creates a high-stakes environment for accidental injury or property loss.
- Direct Users: Anyone riding the Orbit hoverboard risks injury from falls caused by sudden power loss or burns from fire/explosion.
- Charging Supervisors: Individuals who charge the device in bedrooms or living areas are at risk of smoke inhalation and fire exposure.
- Vulnerable Populations: Children, the elderly, and those with limited mobility are at higher risk due to slower reaction times and difficulty escaping a fire scene.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer service, it is essential to confirm that your self-balancing scooter falls within the specific scope of this recall. Because these devices are often sold under various brand names and in many different colors, a quick visual inspection is the most reliable first step. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified that the products involved in this recall are exclusively Orbit brand self-balancing scooters, which are widely known by the colloquial term "hoverboards." If your device carries a different manufacturer’s name or logo, it is not part of this specific recall notice, though you should always remain vigilant about battery safety regardless of the brand.
To verify your model, you need to physically inspect the underside of the scooter. Turn the unit over so that the bottom panel is facing up. Look closely for a black sticker affixed to this surface. The word "Orbit" must be clearly printed on this sticker. This marking is the primary identifier used in this recall. If you cannot find a black sticker with the Orbit logo, or if the branding is obscured by dirt or wear, try cleaning the area gently to ensure you are seeing the original manufacturer label. It is important to note that this recall does not apply to all hoverboards, only those specifically branded as Orbit and sold through Boscov’s.
In addition to the brand name, check the color of your scooter. The recalled units were sold in six distinct colors: black, blue, gold, green, red, and white. While having one of these colors is consistent with the recall description, color alone is not enough to confirm that your unit is affected, as other brands may use similar palettes. However, if your Orbit scooter matches one of these colors, it aligns with the product description provided in the recall facts.
Finally, consider where and when you purchased the device. These specific Orbit hoverboards were sold by Boscov’s department stores. If you bought the scooter from a different retailer, an online marketplace like Amazon or eBay, or directly from another store, it is highly unlikely to be part of this particular recall batch. However, if you are unsure of the purchase history or cannot find your receipt, the presence of the Orbit brand sticker on the underside remains your strongest piece of evidence. If you have confirmed that your device is an Orbit brand hoverboard sold by Boscov’s, please proceed to the remedy steps outlined in our next section.
What to do — step by step
If you own an Orbit brand self-balancing scooter that was purchased from Boscov’s, the most critical action you can take right now is to stop using the device immediately. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlights a serious fire hazard linked to the lithium-ion battery packs inside these units. These batteries can overheat, which may lead to smoking, catching fire, or even exploding. Because this risk involves potential fire and explosion, there is no safe way to continue using the hoverboard, even if it has been working perfectly fine up to this point. Do not attempt to charge it, ride it, or store it in your home while it is still powered on or connected to a charger. Treat the device as a potential fire hazard until you have properly disposed of it through the official recall process. Once you have secured the hoverboard in a safe, non-flammable location away from bedrooms or living areas, your next step is to contact Boscov’s to initiate the return process. The remedy for this specific recall is straightforward: consumers should return their hoverboards to receive either a full refund or store credit. You can reach Boscov’s customer service by calling their toll-free number at 800-755-6391. It is helpful to know their operating hours to ensure you get through quickly. They are available from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Having your proof of purchase or order number ready will help speed up this process when you speak with a representative. Alternatively, if you prefer to handle the return online, you can visit Boscovs.com and navigate to the Customer Care section. From there, look for the Recall Notices tab to find detailed instructions on how to proceed with your return. This online route is often convenient for those who need to manage returns outside of standard phone hours or who prefer digital documentation. Whether you choose to call or use the website, ensure you clearly state that you are returning an Orbit brand hoverboard under the July 6, 2016, CPSC recall due to the fire hazard. Do not attempt to resell or donate the device, as it remains unsafe. By following these steps—stopping use, contacting Boscov’s, and arranging for a return—you are protecting your home and family from unnecessary risk while securing your financial remedy.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Orbit brand self-balancing scooters sold by Boscov’s, your primary path forward is straightforward and consumer-friendly: you are eligible for a full refund or store credit. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has documented that the remedy for this specific recall involves returning the product directly to the retailer. There is no option for a repair in this instance because the hazard lies within the lithium-ion battery pack itself, which is not designed to be user-serviceable and poses a significant fire risk if tampered with or reused in a compromised state. Therefore, the manufacturer and retailer have opted to remove the product from circulation entirely rather than attempting to fix it. This is a common approach for hardware defects involving power sources, as replacing individual batteries can introduce new safety variables that are difficult to guarantee.
To initiate this process, you do not need to navigate complex online portals or wait for automated responses. Boscov’s has established dedicated channels to handle these returns efficiently. You can contact their customer care team by calling their toll-free number at 800-755-6391. Their representatives are available to assist you during specific hours: from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Speaking with a live agent can provide immediate clarity on any questions you might have about the return process, such as whether you need the original packaging or if the batteries must be removed before shipping.
Alternatively, you may choose to handle this entirely through their website. Visit Boscovs.com and navigate to the Customer Care section. From there, select the option for Recall Notices. This digital pathway is designed to guide you through the necessary steps without requiring a phone call if you prefer that method. Whether you choose the phone or the website, the outcome remains the same: you will receive either a full monetary refund or store credit. The choice between these two options is yours, allowing you to decide whether to get your money back or apply it toward other items at Boscov’s.
It is important to note that while this recall does not offer a replacement unit of the same model due to the inherent safety defect, the flexibility in compensation ensures you are not left without recourse. The goal is to make the removal of the hazardous item as seamless as possible for you. By taking these steps promptly, you not only protect your home from potential fire hazards but also ensure that you are compensated fairly for a product that could not be delivered safely. Do not delay in contacting Boscov’s, as early action helps prevent any accidental use of the recalled hoverboard and ensures you receive your refund or credit without unnecessary complications.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that a defective product is only dangerous in extreme or unlikely scenarios. You might reason that because your hoverboard has been sitting in a corner for months, or because it seems to charge and balance just fine right now, there is no immediate cause for alarm. However, with lithium-ion battery failures, the risk does not simply disappear over time; in many cases, it can actually become more unpredictable. The core issue here is that the internal chemistry of the battery pack is compromised. When a lithium-ion cell begins to fail, it often enters a state known as thermal runaway. This is not a gradual decline in performance like an old phone battery that holds less charge; it is a rapid, self-sustaining chain reaction where heat generates more heat.
If you continue to use or even keep these recalled Orbit hoverboards near your home, you are essentially storing a potential ignition source under your roof. The CPSC has identified the specific hazard as overheating that can lead to smoking, catching fire, and potentially exploding. Even if no incidents have been publicly reported yet, the absence of current reports does not mean the risk is absent. It means that by sheer luck or circumstance, the conditions for a failure have not yet aligned. But when they do, the consequences are severe. A lithium-ion battery fire burns at an extremely high temperature and can release toxic fumes almost instantly. Unlike a standard electrical fire that might be contained to a small area, a battery thermal event can escalate from a smoldering defect to a fully engulfed flame in a matter of seconds.
Beyond the immediate danger of fire, there is the risk of property damage and personal injury. These hoverboards are often charged overnight or left plugged in while you sleep. If the battery pack fails during this time, it can ignite nearby combustible materials such as carpeting, curtains, or furniture, leading to a home structure fire that threatens everyone in the household. The explosion hazard mentioned in the recall notice adds another layer of danger; the rapid expansion of gases within the failing cell can cause the casing to rupture with significant force, sending shrapnel flying. This is not a minor inconvenience like a broken toy or a malfunctioning appliance; it is a serious safety event that could result in burns, smoke inhalation, or worse.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall does not make the problem go away. The defect is physical and chemical, not software-based. It will not be fixed by updating an app or resetting the device. Every time you plug it in, you are introducing more energy into a system that cannot safely manage that energy. The longer you wait to return the product, the more likely it is that the battery degradation reaches a critical point. The remedy offered—a full refund or store credit—is designed to remove this hazard from your life entirely. By choosing not to act, you are gambling with your home’s safety and the safety of your family for no financial gain. There is no upside to waiting, only a escalating downside that could change your life in an instant.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in particular Orbit brand hoverboards sold by Boscov’s, the underlying issue of lithium-ion battery safety is relevant to a wide range of modern consumer products. From electric scooters and e-bikes to smartphones, laptops, and power tools, these batteries have become the standard power source because they are lightweight and hold a charge well. However, that same chemistry makes them sensitive to physical damage, extreme temperatures, and manufacturing flaws. Understanding how to handle these devices daily can significantly reduce your risk of fire or injury, regardless of whether you own a recalled item.
One of the most critical steps in battery safety is mindful charging habits. Lithium-ion batteries generate heat while they charge, and leaving them unattended for long periods—especially overnight or while you are at work—can allow minor thermal events to escalate into full-blown fires. It is always safer to charge these devices on a non-flammable surface, such as concrete, tile, or stone, rather than on carpet, wood furniture, or beds where heat can become trapped and ignite surrounding materials. Additionally, avoid using chargers that are not specifically designed for the device or that have been damaged. If a battery pack shows signs of swelling, leaking, or unusual heat during use, stop using it immediately and do not attempt to open or repair it yourself.
Environmental factors also play a major role in battery stability. Extreme temperatures can degrade lithium-ion cells over time, increasing the likelihood of internal short circuits. Avoid leaving any device with a lithium-ion battery in a hot car on a sunny day, where interior temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels. Similarly, protect your devices from moisture and physical impact. A dented or punctured battery case can compromise the separator between the anode and cathode, leading to internal shorting. If you drop your hoverboard, e-bike, or power tool, inspect it carefully before using it again. Look for cracks in the casing or any unusual behavior, such as sudden loss of power or erratic performance.
Finally, stay informed about product safety through official channels. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regularly issue recalls for a vast array of products. Sign up for email alerts on their websites to receive notifications about new recalls affecting your home. Regularly check the manufacturer’s website for safety bulletins, especially if you own older electronics that may no longer be supported by customer service. By treating every battery-powered device with respect and staying vigilant about its condition, you can enjoy the convenience of modern technology while keeping your home and family safe from preventable hazards.