by Esther Animalu, contributing reporter
Hoverboards have been popularly deemed as the new, trend-setting craze of consumers during this holiday season. The two-wheeled hoverboard, also known as the hands-free Segway, is controlled and directed using rigid body motions and movements. In order to move straight, the rider must lean forward; likewise, in order to move in reverse, the rider must lean back. Although the new product has recently been released into large masses, hoverboards may have potentially dangerous defects.
“Hoverboards are really interesting because you are able to control the movement of the hoverboard. I’ve recently rode on one, it’s really fun once you master how to safely operate it,” sophmore Giovanna Esposito said.
According to FOX 31 TV, “Hoverboards are made by many manufacturers and all work pretty much the same. But they all don’t perform the same. Officials in Louisiana said a home was destroyed by fire started by a faulty hoverboard made by Fit Turbo. In Florida, a man recorded his hoverboard as it burned, melted and then finally exploded.”
Furthermore, due to the increase in demand of the hoverboard supply, prices have skyrocketed which resulted in various black markets, attempting to sell knockoffs of the product at much lower prices. Numerous Chinese manufacturers produce their own non-branded hoverboards ready for purchase, at a much lower price point. However, issues with the on-board battery and charging cable can cause them to overheat and explode.
“Hoverboards are a really great addition to our society. Teens my age went from razor scooters to riding the hands-free Segway. The hoverboard changes the way people transport, it’s a very fascinating device. However, I’ve seen explosions on the news that were caused by this new invention, they’re now banned on the streets of New York. It’s important people are aware that although the hoverboard is a fun device, it can also be dangerous,” freshman Julia DiMarcello said.
A surplus of hoverboards that were examined from several UK ports were deemed dangerous by the National Trading Standards agency.
As stated by theguardian.com, “Trading standards officers are warning Christmas shoppers to be cautious before buying a hoverboard, which was recorded to be one of this year’s most popular gifts, after thousands were impounded at UK ports after testing revealed they were at risk of exploding or bursting into flames. Meanwhile, UK Trading Standards have revealed that more than 17,000 hoverboards imported from beyond the EU have been examined over the last seven weeks, of which over 15,000 (88%) failed basic safety checks.”
Although the use of the hoverboard has become more widespread and desired, the defects ultimately outweigh the demand. In order to highly ensure that a purchased hoverboard is functionable and safe, it is reputable to buy a hoverboard that has a warranty from a credible company.
Additionally, as mentioned by FOX 31 TV, the consumer shouldn’t purchase hoverboards that are significantly cheaper compared to the traditional market value. Also, it’s highly advised to buy a hoverboard from a person, face to face or at a brick-and-mortar store, rather than online from an undisclosed source.
