07/09/2016
Following the recent recall of the new Samsung Galaxy Note 7, Electrical Safety First is warning consumers to take the voluntary recall notice seriously and seek replacement of the smartphone.
Samsung UK has said in its investigation, it found a battery cell issue in which phones could overheat, potentially creating a risk of fire. The Galaxy Note 7, like most mobile phones, has a lithium-ion battery. These will naturally get warm due to high currents flowing during charge and discharge cycles, but can sometimes overheat.
There have been 35 reported cases of phones catching fire, though none yet in the UK.
While they haven’t been released officially in the United Kingdom, Electrical Safety First encourages anyone who has purchased the phone to exchange it for a replacement when one becomes available after 19 September.
Emma Apter, Head of Communications at Electrical Safety First:
“We know that returning a recalled product is not always convenient, especially if it’s an item that you use every day, but recall notices are issued to keep consumers safe.
“We advise anyone with a Samsung Galaxy Note 7 who is waiting for a replacement to take care when charging the device; don’t charge unattended, overnight or on flammable surfaces, otherwise you stand the risk of the item or its charger catching fire.”
In the meantime, anyone with any questions or concerns should contact Samsung at 0330 7261000.
Mobile phone safety
- DO make sure laptops, phones, tablets and any other electrical devices are charged on a hard surface such as a desk or table
- DON’T charge phones, tablets or any electrical device on your bed, under a pillow or anywhere the device might overheat. Avoid charging devices unattended or overnight
- DON’T use or let children use fake or unbranded chargers. Many of these chargers do not satisfy UK safety regulations and can cause serious electric shock, injury or fire
- DO check plugs, sockets and cables regularly for signs of damage or scorching
Finally, with all purchased devices and appliances, Electrical Safety First encourages the public to register their purchases so that they can be contacted in the event of a recall. To register an appliance, visit our Product Registration page.
ENDS
For more information please contact:
Christina Copp T: 020 3463 5129 E: Christina.copp@electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk
Editors’ Notes
- Electrical Safety First is a UK Charity dedicated to reducing and preventing damage, injuries and death caused by electricity. More information can be found at http://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk