Coby Electronics Portable DVD Player Batteries Recalled

A voluntary recall is under effect right now for rechargeable batteries sold with Coby Electronics portable DVD/CD/MP3 players due to a potential fire hazard. The entire recall is spelled out below.

Name of Product: Rechargeable Batteries sold with portable DVD/CD/MP3 players

Units: About 13,000

Importer: Coby Electronics Corp., of Lake Success, N.Y.

Hazard: The rechargeable batteries can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Coby Electronics has received four reports of batteries overheating, three of which resulted in minor property damage from a fire. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves batteries with serial numbers listedand sold with the TF-DVD 1020 portable DVD/CD/MP3 players. The battery's serial number can be found on a white sticker affixed to it. The product looks like a small laptop computer and has a 10" swivel TV screen. "COBY" is written on the front cover and under the screen. "TF-DVD 1020" can be found on the bottom of the unit.

Recalled Batteries Serial Number Ranges:

• DG240043D503000001-1006
• DG240006D503000001-400
• DG240039D603000001-3000
• DG240111D603000001-2000
• DG240143D602000001-3000
• DG240106D602000001-2000
• DG240106D702000001-2000
• DG240183D942000001-100
• DG240071DB02000001-1400
• DG240115D702000001-1726
• DG240115D702000001-2500

Sold at: Discount, electronics, music, toy, office supply stores and distributors of electronic products nationwide. The TF-DVD 1020 units containing the recalled batteries were sold from May 2007 through July 2008 for about $168.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the "TV-DVD 1020" players with the recalled batteries and contact the firm to arrange for a free replacement battery. After removing the recalled batteries from the unit, consumers can continue to use it with the AC or DC power adapter.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Coby Electronics toll-free at (866) 945-2629 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm's Web site at http://www.cobyusa.com.

Photos at http://www.cpsc.gov.