Hoverboards, e-scooters, and e-bikes are among the fastest-growing consumer products in America — and among the most dangerous. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that from 2017 to 2021, injuries from micromobility devices spiked 127 percent to 77,200 — and the number of deaths rose from 5 to 48. Beyond collision hazards, the lithium-ion batteries that power these products have been linked to deadly fires and explosions, with CPSC aware of 227 unique fire, explosion, and burn incidents from micromobility products between 2019 and 2023 alone.
The Battery Fire Hazard
Lithium-ion battery packs in hoverboards and e-scooters can overheat in a process called thermal runaway, causing the product to smoke, catch fire, or explode. These fires can start without warning — while the device is charging, in storage, or even during use. In March 2017, a fire in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania caused by a LayZ Board hoverboard took the lives of two young girls. A second fire linked to a LayZ Board destroyed a townhome and damaged four others in Manchester Township, Pennsylvania in October 2017.
CPSC has warned that hoverboards and e-scooters manufactured before January 29, 2016, are not compliant with the UL 2272 safety standard, which was developed to reduce fire and electrical hazards. All hoverboards sold today should be compliant with UL 2272 — but counterfeit or non-certified products continue to be sold online and through informal retailers.
What to Look For When Buying
- Only purchase hoverboards and e-scooters from reputable retailers and look for a UL 2272 certification label on the product.
- If the price seems significantly lower than comparable products, the unit may not be UL 2272 compliant.
- Never purchase a hoverboard from a kiosk, a secondhand seller, or an online retailer without proof that the product is compliant with the UL 2272 safety standard.
- Be aware that sellers may claim to have UL-compliant battery packs or chargers while the overall product itself is not UL 2272 compliant. UL 2272 covers the entire unit, not just individual components.
Safe Riding and Charging Tips
- Always wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet when riding a hoverboard or e-scooter.
- Before riding, inspect the handlebars, brakes, throttle, lights, tires, and frame for any damage.
- Follow all manufacturer weight and age limits for the product.
- Only one person per e-scooter — additional riders increase the risk of serious injury.
- Never charge a hoverboard or e-scooter overnight or leave it charging unattended for long periods.
- Do not use aftermarket chargers or battery packs that were not supplied with the product.
- If a device shows signs of overheating, swelling, or unusual odor during charging or use, stop using it immediately and move it to a safe outdoor location.
To report a dangerous hoverboard, e-scooter, or battery fire, visit SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772.
