Video Battery Catches Fire

If you have a Source-12 battery pack for your video, you have a chance for a serious fire.

If water leaks into the battery case, the battery can build up heat, smolder for up to several days, and catch fire. The manufacturer, Light & Motion Industries, received two confirmed reports of fire and a report from a third diver who said he jettisoned the light overboard when the fire began.

The batteries measure 7 inches by 4 and are black with a clear top. They were sold under the names: SeaHawk Pro Package, SeaBlaze Dual EX, SeaBlaze Single EX, SeaBlaze Single Light, and SeaBlaze Specular Film Light. They have been recalled in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.

If a battery floods, immediately disassemble the retaining ring and bulkhead from the battery, and remove the circuit board -- if necessary, contact the manufacturer for disassembly instructions. Anyone who purchased a model manufactured between January 1990 and September 1996 should return it for repair.

Light and Motion Industries, 300 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940: 408/645-1525, fax: 408/375-2517 email: support@lmindustries.com.