Recalled power banks pose dangerous fire risk, ACCC warns

Australia’s consumer watchdog has issued a fire hazard warning over a growing number of recalled wireless power banks that haven’t been returned.

Of the 17 recalled power bank models since 2020, the ACCC believes that “around 34,000” devices are still in consumers’ hands. Included in the 17 recalled power banks, nine recalls occurred in the past 16 months.

The ACCC’s warning follows a recent recall of several Anker power bank models due to overheating and fire risks.

“Some consumers have suffered serious burn injuries, and some have had their property damaged because of power banks overheating and catching fire,” said Catriona Lowe, ACCC Deputy Chair.

“Most incidents have occurred when the power bank is charging a phone or other device, which makes it more likely that they will be close to the user when they fail, increasing the likelihood of injuries.”

To reduce the risk of damage, the ACCC recommends not charging power banks on flammable surfaces. So, don’t charge them on the bed, a couch, or anywhere that could easily catch alight. If you notice anything wrong with a power bank, like cracks or swelling, stop using it immediately.

Just as importantly, don’t use any recalled power bank. All recalls include instructions on what to do next, which usually includes a refund or a replacement at no extra cost.

“Consumers who own a recalled power bank shouldn’t be concerned about being left out of pocket,” Lowe said.

Recently recalled power banks

The ACCC publishes a searchable database of recalled products online, including the following power banks it’s monitoring closely:

• Anker power bank models: A1257, A1647, A1681, A1689
• Anker power bank A1647
• Baseus power bank 65W 30000mAh (BS-30KP365)
• Baseus magnetic wireless charging power banks 6000mAh 20W
• SnapWireless PowerPack Slim (Gen 1)
• Quad Lock MAG battery pack
• Belkin BoostCharge Pro fast wireless charger for Apple watch + power bank 10K
• Cygnett MagMove 5K Power Bank

Of the above models, the ACCC has received 76 incident reports concerning the 65W Baseus model (BS-30KP365). Bulging power banks comprised most of the reports at 72, while there were also four reports of fire.

And remember: do not dispose of any power banks in your landfill bin. Because most power banks contain either lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, they also can’t be recycled via regular battery drop-off points. Contact your local council or visit Planet Ark to find the nearest disposal location.

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