Federal safety warning issued over recalled smartwatch
- Replies 0
For many home shoppers, the thrill of finding a half-price gadget on the Home Shopping Network (HSN) is part of the fun.
But one recent deal has turned into a safety warning for thousands of buyers.
Federal safety officials have issued a recall for a smartwatch that was sold for around $50 earlier this year after reports it could overheat and catch fire.
The hazard has already left some customers with burned hands and property damage.
If you purchased this item between March and May, you’ll want to check your watch immediately.
What is the recalled product?
The recall affects the Altafit af28 smartwatch, sold on HSN from March to May this year at a discounted price—around $50, half its original cost.
About 2,900 units were sold online during the three-month sales window.
The watch featured a 1.68-inch color touchscreen, came with two bands (one bejeweled and one mesh), and was promoted with health-tracking features like oxygen level monitoring, sleep tracking, heart rate, and multiple sports modes.
“ALTAFIT FCC ID 2BHG8-AF28” is on the back of the watch.
It was also advertised as water resistant with an IP67 rating, and capable of receiving calls, texts, and app notifications.
Also read: Trouble sleeping? A newly approved device could offer a quiet breakthrough
Why was it recalled?
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the recall after receiving 39 reports of the watch overheating, melting, and even igniting flames while on its charger.
At least six customers suffered burns to their hands, and some reported property damage.
The watch’s wireless charging pad is to blame for the fire hazards.
Reports indicate most incidents happened while the watch was charging, with the pad overheating and, in some cases, igniting.
The smartwatches were imported into the US by Deale International LLC, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The recall notice carried the number 25-428. No fatalities have been reported.
Also read:This popular Apple product could be putting you at risk for cancer – here’s what you need to know!
What should you do if you own one?
The CPSC urges consumers to stop using the charging pad immediately and unplug it from the wall.
To receive a free replacement from Deale International, you’ll need to cut the power cable of the unplugged charging pad and send a photo of it to [email protected].
You can also contact HSN customer service via their website or hotline for recall processing.
Also read: 7 common DIY security setups that might leave your home vulnerable
Why recalls matter
Recalls are an important safety measure to prevent injuries from defective products.
Even reputable retailers can sell items that have hidden hazards, making it important to act quickly when a notice is issued.
The CPSC continues to monitor reports linked to wearable devices.
In August, the CPSC issued a nationwide recall for the KidKraft Farm to Table Model Play Kitchen, affecting about 192,000 units.
The move came after the toy was linked to the death of a 23-month-old boy who became trapped and was unable to free himself.
Officials warn that staying informed and following recall instructions can save lives.
Also read : Is your kitchen scale safe? Major recall hits Walmart and Amazon shoppers
How to reduce your risk with electronics
If you or someone you know purchased this smartwatch, take action immediately to prevent potential injury or damage.
Staying alert to recalls is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and your home from hidden product hazards.
By sharing recall information, you can help ensure friends, family, and neighbors stay safe too.
Read next: A common gardening tool may be more dangerous than you think
Have you ever returned a product because of a recall? How do you keep track of product safety alerts for items in your home? Share your thoughts and tips—your advice could help keep others safe.
But one recent deal has turned into a safety warning for thousands of buyers.
Federal safety officials have issued a recall for a smartwatch that was sold for around $50 earlier this year after reports it could overheat and catch fire.
The hazard has already left some customers with burned hands and property damage.
If you purchased this item between March and May, you’ll want to check your watch immediately.
Staying informed about product recalls can help protect your household from unexpected safety risks. Image Source: Pexels / MOHI SYED.
What is the recalled product?
The recall affects the Altafit af28 smartwatch, sold on HSN from March to May this year at a discounted price—around $50, half its original cost.
About 2,900 units were sold online during the three-month sales window.
The watch featured a 1.68-inch color touchscreen, came with two bands (one bejeweled and one mesh), and was promoted with health-tracking features like oxygen level monitoring, sleep tracking, heart rate, and multiple sports modes.
“ALTAFIT FCC ID 2BHG8-AF28” is on the back of the watch.
It was also advertised as water resistant with an IP67 rating, and capable of receiving calls, texts, and app notifications.
Also read: Trouble sleeping? A newly approved device could offer a quiet breakthrough
Why was it recalled?
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the recall after receiving 39 reports of the watch overheating, melting, and even igniting flames while on its charger.
At least six customers suffered burns to their hands, and some reported property damage.
The watch’s wireless charging pad is to blame for the fire hazards.
Reports indicate most incidents happened while the watch was charging, with the pad overheating and, in some cases, igniting.
The smartwatches were imported into the US by Deale International LLC, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The recall notice carried the number 25-428. No fatalities have been reported.
Also read:This popular Apple product could be putting you at risk for cancer – here’s what you need to know!
What should you do if you own one?
The CPSC urges consumers to stop using the charging pad immediately and unplug it from the wall.
To receive a free replacement from Deale International, you’ll need to cut the power cable of the unplugged charging pad and send a photo of it to [email protected].
You can also contact HSN customer service via their website or hotline for recall processing.
The Altafit af28 smartwatch, sold on HSN from March to May, has been recalled over fire and burn hazards linked to its wireless charging pad. Image source: US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Also read: 7 common DIY security setups that might leave your home vulnerable
Why recalls matter
Recalls are an important safety measure to prevent injuries from defective products.
Even reputable retailers can sell items that have hidden hazards, making it important to act quickly when a notice is issued.
The CPSC continues to monitor reports linked to wearable devices.
In August, the CPSC issued a nationwide recall for the KidKraft Farm to Table Model Play Kitchen, affecting about 192,000 units.
The move came after the toy was linked to the death of a 23-month-old boy who became trapped and was unable to free himself.
Officials warn that staying informed and following recall instructions can save lives.
Burn injuries from faulty electronics highlight the importance of following recall warnings promptly. Image Source: YouTube / MJ4 News.
Also read : Is your kitchen scale safe? Major recall hits Walmart and Amazon shoppers
How to reduce your risk with electronics
- Register products after purchase so you can be notified directly if there’s a recall.
- Check recall alerts regularly, especially for electronics and products that use chargers.
- Avoid leaving charging devices unattended and unplug them if they become hot to the touch.
- Report product defects to the retailer or manufacturer, even if you think it’s an isolated issue.
If you or someone you know purchased this smartwatch, take action immediately to prevent potential injury or damage.
Staying alert to recalls is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and your home from hidden product hazards.
By sharing recall information, you can help ensure friends, family, and neighbors stay safe too.
Read next: A common gardening tool may be more dangerous than you think
Have you ever returned a product because of a recall? How do you keep track of product safety alerts for items in your home? Share your thoughts and tips—your advice could help keep others safe.
