In what is likely one of the largest consumer electronics product recalls in history, computer maker Dell is voluntarily recalling some 4.1 million batteries sold with its notebook systems from April 1, 2004 through July, 18, 2006, due to a risk of fire. Dell is offering free replacement batteries to affected consumers.
According to Dell,the batteries can overheat under rare conditions, presenting a risk of fire, property damage, and injury to users—one of these batteries is the cause of the “flaming Dell” pictures which have been circulating around the Internet for the last few weeks. Dell says customers should not use recalled batteries, but power notebooks from their AC adapters until replacement batteries arrive. Dell says it has received six reports of the batteries overheating, causing damage to furniture and personal belongings. The company has received no reports of injuries caused by the recalled batteries.
