More than 300,000 wireless DeWalt earphones sold nationwide are being recalled because they could potentially overheat and cause burn injuries.
According to Fox Business, California-based E-filliate Inc. issued the recall after 61 reports that the earphones overheated. This includes five reports that the earphones caught fire and four reports that the product caused burn injuries, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Details of the DeWalt Earphones Recall
The DeWalt-branded Jobsite Pro Wireless Earphones were sold nationwide in electronics stores and hardware stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s from December 2019 to July 2021. They were also sold online at Cyberguys.com. The recalled product can be identified by its black and yellow neckband and wired earbuds.
Those who have these products at home are urged to stop using them right away. If your product is included in the recall, stop using the wireless earphones and contact E-filliate to arrange to return it at no charge to the consumer. E-filliate says customers can contact the company for a free replacement of its $60 headsets but did not mention what the replacements would be.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
When earbuds have a rechargeable battery (wireless ones), that’s when there is a risk of a fire or explosion. The main disadvantage of lithium-ion batteries is that they lose their capacity over time. So, the battery can’t last longer than three or four years. Because lithium-ion batteries have a flammable electrolyte, every manufactured battery has to go through stringent testing. If there is pressure or heat acting on the battery, the electrolyte can catch fire posing a burn hazard for the user.
Product Liability Issues
When manufacturers don’t engage in proper testing or quality control processes and cut corners, the result can be devastating for consumers. If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective or poorly-made lithium-ion battery, or have been injured in an incident involving these DeWalt earphones, you may be able to file a product liability lawsuit against the at-fault parties seeking damages for your losses.
Injured victims may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In such cases involving defective products, a class action lawsuit can also help hold corporations accountable. An experienced product defect lawyer will be able to help you better understand your legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/dewalt-headphones-recall-home-depot-lowes
