WASHINGTON, D.C. –The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is issuing a safety advisory to drivers outlining the risks and regulations associated with transporting damaged, defective, or recalled lithium cells or batteries or portable electronic devices, including the Samsung Note 7 smartphone that was recently recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

According to the CPSC, the lithium-ion battery in the Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphones can overheat and catch fire, posing a serious burn and fire hazard.  The recall affects nearly two million Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphones.

FMCSA is recommending that all who wish to carry these devices on a CMV, including motorcoaches, take the following precautions:

• Turn off the device;
• Disconnect the device from any charging equipment;
• Disable all applications that could inadvertently activate the phone (e.g., alarm clock);
• Protect the power switch to prevent its unintentional activation; and
• Keep the device in carry-on baggage or on your person. Do not store in an inaccessible baggage compartment.

The recalled Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones are subject to this regulatory prohibition and may only be transported by CMV as cargo under the conditions of a Special Permit or Approval issued by PHMSA’s Associate Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety.