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ORTOVOX Recalls Avalanche Transceivers Due to Loss of Emergency Communications Capability

Reported: July 10, 2018 Initiated: July 10, 2018 #18185

Product Description

This recall involves Ortovox avalanche transceivers, model numbers 1137000006, 1137000001 and 1137000002. They were sold in black/blue (model number 1137000006), black/black (model number 1137000001) and neon green (model number 1137000002). The transceiver is used as a beacon to locate an individual in the event of avalanche burial. ORTOVOX and 3+ are printed on the top of the device. In the open/receive position, the top half of the transceiver displays a blue screen with green border that displays an image and distance reading of the buried individual. The transceivers measure about 5 inches long by 3 inches wide by 1 inch thick in the closed/transmit position. All transceivers manufactured from 2010 through 2018 are included in the recall. The manufacture date is printed inside the battery door on the back of the transceiver with a roman numeral representing the quarter of the year and a two digit number referring to the year. For example, a manufacture date of IV/17 represents the fourth quarter. The year of manufacture is five years earlier. In this case, the transceiver was manufactured in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Reason for Recall

The transceiver can fail to work properly due to a software error and fail to transmit the position of survivors of an avalanche, resulting in delayed search and rescue operations.

Remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled transceivers and return them to Ortovox for a free repair, including free shipping.

Details

Recalling Firm
Ortovox, of Germany
Units Affected
About 20,000 (In addition, about 7,000 were sold in Canada)

Frequently Asked Questions

What product was recalled?
This recall involves Ortovox avalanche transceivers, model numbers 1137000006, 1137000001 and 1137000002. They were sold in black/blue (model number 1137000006), black/black (model number 1137000001) and neon green (model number 1137000002). The transceiver is used as a beacon to locate an individual in the event of avalanche burial. ORTOVOX and 3+ are printed on the top of the device. In the open/receive position, the top half of the transceiver displays a blue screen with green border that displays an image and distance reading of the buried individual. The transceivers measure about 5 inches long by 3 inches wide by 1 inch thick in the closed/transmit position. All transceivers manufactured from 2010 through 2018 are included in the recall. The manufacture date is printed inside the battery door on the back of the transceiver with a roman numeral representing the quarter of the year and a two digit number referring to the year. For example, a manufacture date of IV/17 represents the fourth quarter. The year of manufacture is five years earlier. In this case, the transceiver was manufactured in the fourth quarter of 2012.. Recalled by Ortovox, of Germany. Units affected: About 20,000 (In addition, about 7,000 were sold in Canada).
Why was this product recalled?
The transceiver can fail to work properly due to a software error and fail to transmit the position of survivors of an avalanche, resulting in delayed search and rescue operations.
What should consumers do?
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled transceivers and return them to Ortovox for a free repair, including free shipping.
Which agency issued this recall?
This recall was issued by the CPSC on July 10, 2018. Severity: Moderate. Recall number: 18185.