On June 26, 2008, Westminster Inc. recalled about 102,000 “Thunder Wolf” Remote Controlled Indoor Helicopters after receiving seven reports of overheating and/or melting of the helicopter. Included in the consumer reports were one report of flames and two reports of minor property damage.

The rechargeable battery located inside the recalled helicopter can overheat, which poses a fire/burn hazard to consumers.

The recalled “Thunder Wolf” Remote Controlled Indoor Helicopter is made of foam and plastic in various colors and is sold with a controller and a separate charger. The helicopter measures about 7 inches by 3 inches, and has “TW0996” printed on the tail of the helicopter. Helicopters that do not have the words “Made in China” stamped on the underside of the helicopter are the only helicopters included in the recall.

Retail stores nationwide sold the recalled Westminster helicopters from June 2007 through December 2007 for about $20.

Consumers are advised to immediately stop playing with the recalled “Thunder Wolf” Remote Controlled Indoor Helicopters and contact Westminster Inc. at 800-618-0023 for a refund. For more information, customers may also visit the company’s website or email the company.

Source: “Westminster Inc. recalls Remote-Controlled Helicopter Toys due to risk of fire,” US Consumer Product Safety Commission Release #08-315, June 26, 2008.