Over 34,000 power banks have been recalled in Australia due to significant safety hazards, posing risks of burns and property damage, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). These portable chargers, which utilize highly flammable lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, are often used to charge mobile devices on the go.
Since 2020, the ACCC has announced 17 recalls related to power banks, with nine occurring in just the last 16 months. Alarmingly, many of these potentially dangerous devices remain in consumers’ possession, as they have not been returned for refunds or replacements.
ACCC Deputy Chair, Catriona Lowe, highlighted that multiple individuals have sustained serious burns, and some have experienced property damage due to power banks overheating and igniting. Such incidents are most prevalent when the devices are actively charging, increasing the risk of user injuries. Power banks can catch fire, explode, or release toxic gases if poorly manufactured, handled, stored, or disposed of.
To mitigate risks, the ACCC advises consumers to strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines, keep power banks in cool, dry environments, and refrain from placing them on flammable surfaces such as beds or carpets. The commission strongly recommends that users of any recalled power banks cease usage immediately.
Examples of hazardous models include the Quad Lock MAG battery pack and the BoostCharge Pro fast wireless charger for the Apple Watch + power bank 10K. Other models associated with serious incidents include the Anker Power Bank (models A1257, A1647, A1681, A1689), SnapWireless PowerPack Slim (Gen 1), and Baseus magnetic wireless charging models. Notably, the Baseus power bank (65W 30,000 mAh, model BS-30KP365) has been linked to 76 reported issues, including 72 instances of bulging and four fires.
Consumers are urged to check whether they own any affected power banks and take necessary actions to ensure their safety and those around them.