For Immediate Release: Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Contact: Office of Communications, Communications@MyFloridaCFO.com, 850.413.2842

**CONSUMER ALERT**

CFO & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis: Beware of Dyson Vacuum Replacement Batteries

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is warning consumers to beware of purchasing Amazon’s lithium-ion replacement battery packs for Dyson vacuum cleaners. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Zautnkn.Inc lithium-ion replacement battery packs, which are sold on Amazon, pose a risk of fire to consumers. The ZAUTNKN.INC batteries are not a Dyson or Dyson-authorized product and there has been reports of three fires associated with these batteries. A few weeks ago, the CFO announced the filing of a priority bill, House Bill 989 and Senate Bill 1098, which establishes safety standards to prevent lithium-ion battery fires and other issues with energy storage systems.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “It’s imperative that consumers know the risks before purchasing lithium-ion battery packs from Amazon for Dyson vacuums. These batteries pose a serious threat, and they are incredibly dangerous if they catch fire. Once a fire begins, it can spread quickly and become extremely difficult for firefighters to put out. Floridians should ensure that lithium-ion batteries are certified for safety by checking for nationally recognized testing laboratory markings like UL, ETL, CSA, or SGS. Florida leads the way in crafting new solutions to new problems like the fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. This session, I’m proposing legislation that the state create policies and procedures around lithium-ion batteries to prevent potential disasters. It’s very important that consumers are aware of the new and unprecedented threat that Lithium-ion fires pose to Floridians and their property. As CFO and State Fire Marshal, I will continue providing consumers and our firefighters with the proper tools and information to prevent these serious lithium-ion battery fires.”

Important Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips:

• Choose certified products. When purchasing lithium-ion battery-powered devices, look for products that are listed or safety certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory with markings such as UL, ETL, CSA or SGS to ensure they meet important safety requirements.
• Handle with care. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Only use the charging equipment that comes with the product. Store batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, exits, and anything flammable. Charge larger devices away from your exit path and outside your home if possible. Do not charge larger devices overnight.
• Always stay alert for warning signs. Check battery-powered devices often for damage or abuse such as swelling or punctures. Listen for unusual hissing or popping sounds. Watch out for excessive heat or a strange odor. If you notice any of these warning signs, stop using the lithium-ion battery-powered device immediately. White or gray wispy smoke indicates there is immediate danger of fire.
• Recycle devices and batteries properly. When disposing of batteries, chargers or battery-powered devices DO NOT put them in the trash! Take them to the recycling center.
• Get out if there’s a fire. Get out if you see or hear warning signs. Follow your home fire escape plan to leave immediately and call 9-1-1.

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis 
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and X (@FLDFS).