Kean University Bans Hoverboards Amid Scrutiny Over Fires And Injuries

UNION TOWNSHIP, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Students at Kean University in New Jersey better leave their hoverboards home when they return from break.

The university has moved to ban the popular holiday gift for fear they can cause fires or injure students. The school plans to confiscate any hoverboard found on its Union and Ocean campuses.

Spokeswoman Susan Kayne told NJ.com the school acted on the recommendation of the state Fire Safety Division, which has suggested all colleges prohibit the devices.

There has been heightened scrutiny of hoverboards and similar devices after several recent fires and injuries related to falling.

In December, a hoverboard caught fire and damaged a home in Lacey Township. Fire officials said the device caught fire while charging.

Another hoverboard burst into flames inside a Brooklyn apartment in late December. The FDNY launched an investigation after the toy caught fire while charging, causing damage to the floor.

No one was injured in either incident.

The three largest U.S. airlines have also banned them because of potential fire danger. Delta Airlines made the announcement banning the boards in early December, after a consumer alert was issued.

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