WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Notebook computers are now a part
of modern life. They can be found in offices, schools and homes across the
country. There are tens of millions of portable computers in use. The U.S.
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is aware of at least 47 incidents
involving smoke or fire associated with notebook computers, from January
2001 through August 2006.
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To promote safe use of notebook computers, batteries and chargers, CPSC
offers the following tips:
* Do not use incompatible computer batteries and chargers. If unsure
about whether a replacement battery or charger is compatible, contact
the product manufacturer.
* Computer batteries can get hot during normal use. Do not use your
computer on your lap.
* Do not use your computer on soft surfaces, such as a sofa, bed or
carpet, because it can restrict airflow and cause overheating.
* Do not permit a loose battery to come in contact with metal objects,
such as coins, keys or jewelry.
* Do not crush, puncture or put a high degree of pressure on the battery
as this can cause an internal short-circuit, resulting in overheating.
* Avoid dropping or bumping the computer. Dropping it, especially on a
hard surface, can potentially cause damage to the computer and battery.
If you suspect damage contact the manufacturer.
* Do not place the computer in areas that may get very hot.
* Do not get your computer or battery wet. Even though they will dry and
appear to operate normally, the circuitry could slowly corrode and pose
a safety hazard.
* Follow battery usage, storage and charging guidelines found in the
user's guide.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting
the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more
than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction.
Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost
the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to
protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire,
electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC's work to ensure the
safety of consumer products -- such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette
lighters, and household chemicals -- contributed significantly to the 30
percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer
products over the past 30 years.
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's
hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 or
visit CPSC's Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. Consumers can
obtain this release and recall information at CPSC's Web site at
http://www.cpsc.gov.
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7800
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