DOH, DTI: Hoverboards inappropriate for kids aged 14 below

DTI, DOH: Use hoverboards with extreme caution. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

The Department of Health (DOH) has warned parents against buying hoverboards—the two-wheeler gliding motorized scooters—for children aged 14 and below.

The DOH, through the Food and Drug Administration, issued the statement along with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) following reports from other countries  ordering the recall of some models deemed to be unsafe.

The DOH-DTI said that since August 2015, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States has noted an increase in hoverboard-related injuries with another report about the recall of several hoverboard models in Australia.

According to their joint statement, there have been reports of sudden explosions and fires emanating from the batteries of the hoverboards as well as potential electric shock during charging.

“Initial investigation of the CPSC points to poorly designed lithium-ion batteries installed inside these devices which causes overcharging and may lead to overheating, fires and explosion,” the DOH and DTI said.

Currently, the DOH’s regulations under ISO 8124 standard for toys allow only the use of 24 volts and below for electronically-activated toys for children under 14 years old.

Hoverboards, however, are propelled by 36 volts or higher capacity batteries which may be difficult to properly control.

“Consumers intending to buy hoverboards are therefore advised to use extreme caution in riding these devices as the risk of falls are highly likely,” the DOH and DTI said.

“Use appropriate safety equipment such as helmets, wrist guards, knee and elbow pads to minimize the risk of an accident,” they added.