Government Says It Will Go After Hoverboard Makers, Sellers

NEW YORK (AP) - The government is cracking down on hoverboards.

In a letter to manufacturers, importers and retailers, U.S. regulators said they will seize or recall any of the of the two-wheeled, self-balancing scooters, which were a huge hit this holiday season, if they fail to meet federal safety standards.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in a letter issued Thursday noted 52 reports of fires that users say were caused by hoverboards in 24 states. Those fires led to $2 million in property damage, including destruction of two homes and an automobile.

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It said many of those incidents would not have happened if the hoverboards met existing standards.

Concerns that lithium ion batteries inside the hoverboards could spark a fire have led to bans by several airlines and college campuses.

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