As personal e-Mobility devices, including hoverboards, continue to grow in popularity, the need for understanding Hoverboards safety is more important than ever.
Facts
- Hoverboards are not waterproof- they are water-resistant to IP rating: IP52*
- Hoverboards are not designed for use on a muddy or grassy ground
- Hoverboards are not designed to withstand water splashed from the underside
Do’s
- Do ensure the hoverboard is wiped down
- Do ensure the charging port is completely dry before attempting to charge
- Do fully charge the hoverboard before storage
- Do keep within the maximum speed limit and gradient limits
- Do follow all of the safety instructions of the brand
- Do ensure the hoverboard is regularly recalibrated
- Keep the e-Mobility device away from flammable materials while charging.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended charging times. DO NOT overcharge.
- Use only the charger that is packaged with the e-Mobility device.
- If an incident does occur, leave the area and call 911. Due to the nature of battery chemical fires, it may be incorrect to use a fire extinguisher.
- Follow all manufacturer-recommended safety guidelines, including wearing recommended personal protective gear.
Don’ts
- Do not attempt to ride the hoverboard in wet weather
- Do not store the hoverboard in wet or damp or very cold conditions
- Do not store the hoverboard with zero charge
- Do not ride the hoverboard if it isn’t calibrated
Safety Concerns
No matter how advanced and fun-to-ride your hoverboard of choice is, the model you choose should be safe and recommended for everyday travel. With the heightened incidence of exploding batteries and fire hazards, especially by poorly designed hoverboards, buying the cheapest or first model you come across will work against you.
For the best experience, it is advisable that you check the type of battery that powers your hoverboard of choice. Is it certified? Are there damaging reports of its value and or performance over time? Generally, reputable battery brands such as Samsung and LG will work best for you. For optimal safety, other attributes that you must never sacrifice include a speed limiter, battery level indicator, and sensor and gyro-regulated self-stabilization system.
Legality
Before purchasing a hoverboard, confirm whether your brand of choice or if hoverboards as a whole are allowed in your jurisdiction. Some countries and states such as the United Kingdom (UK) and New York, for instance, do not allow usage of hoverboards on public roads. Infringing on such laws might see you lose your hard-earned hoverboard and worse even, face legal suits or proceedings.
*IP (or “Ingress Protection”) ratings are defined in international standard EN 60529 (British BS EN 60529:1992, European IEC 60509:1989). They are used to define levels of sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against intrusion from foreign bodies (tools, dirt etc) and moisture. Most common IP ratings are 65, 66, 67 and 68.