1/9/2016

Based upon recent instances of batteries from electronic self-balancing devices bursting into flames, all hoverboards and similar devices are temporarily banned from all campus buildings and grounds effective immediately.This ban prohibits the use, possession, or storage at residence halls, university buildings, all other campus buildings, and other off-campus properties controlled by the university effective immediately.

All students, faculty and staff are asked to leave these devices at an off-campus location.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a strong warning and also highlighted the fact that an investigation into burning hoverboards is ongoing.  Many major U.S. airlines and shipping companies also have banned hoverboards on flights due to safety concerns. Numerous other campuses and organizations have also instituted bans of these devices.

“The University has made the decision to temporarily ban all hoverboards and similar devices given the fact that these devices are connected to numerous fires and the potential fire risk that they pose to people and property. The potential threat to the safety of our students, faculty, and staff is simply not worth the risk.” Joe Gray, Vice President for Facilities, IT and Infrastructure.

The ban will remain in effect until more information and better safety standards for all models of the equipment are in place to protect Cumberland’s students, faculty, and staff from the potential threats to safety.

As students, faculty and staff return to campus, they are asked not to bring these types of devices to campus.