INIU Power Banks Recalled for Fire and Burn Risks; Consumers Urged to Stop Use Immediately

Approximately 210,000 INIU brand portable power banks are being recalled due to a significant fire and burn hazard, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The issue stems from the lithium-ion battery within the power banks, which can overheat and ignite. This poses a substantial risk to consumers, with 15 reports already received detailing power bank overheating, including 11 instances of fires. These incidents have resulted in three minor burn injuries and over $380,000 in property damage.

The recall specifically targets INIU 10,000mAh portable power banks, model BI-B41. These devices, which were sold in black or blue, are identifiable by the INIU logo and a paw-print LED light on the front. Consumers can find the model and serial number printed on the back of the power bank at the bottom. Only units with the serial numbers 000G21, 000H21, 000I21, and 000L21 are included in this recall. The power banks were available for purchase on Amazon.com between August 2021 and April 2022, with a retail price of approximately $18. Shenzhen Topstar Industry Co., Ltd., of China, manufactured the product, and INIU, based in Seattle, Washington, served as the retailer.

Consumers who own the affected power banks are strongly advised to cease using them immediately. To receive a full refund, customers must visit INIU’s dedicated recall page at https://iniushop.com/pages/recall-b41# to verify their product’s serial number and complete the registration process. For those seeking further assistance, INIU can be reached toll-free at 888-886-3606 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or via email at recall@iniu.shop. Additional information can also be found on the INIU website by clicking on the “Product Recalls” link at the top of the page.

The commission also issued a critical warning regarding the disposal of these recalled lithium-ion batteries. It is imperative that these products not be discarded in regular trash bins, curbside recycling, or general used battery recycling boxes found in retail locations. Due to their heightened fire risk, recalled lithium-ion batteries require specific disposal methods. Consumers are directed to contact their local municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center to inquire about their procedures for accepting recalled lithium-ion batteries. It is recommended to call ahead to confirm acceptance and follow any specific instructions provided by the HHW center or the municipality.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

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