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2026-02-24 – A CyberPower multi-plug power strip reportedly caused a fire hazard in a fifth-wheel RV, according to a January 2, 2026 incident report filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) SaferProducts.gov database. The incident, classified as a Fire Or Burn Hazard, involved a spring-like component that became dislodged and jammed between the prongs of a connected plug, leading to an electrical burning smell and potential fire risk. Product DetailsBrand Name: CyberPower Unknown Incident OverviewOn January 2, 2026, a consumer in a fifth-wheel RV was awakened in the middle of the night by an electrical smell. The source was a CyberPower multi-plug power strip with six outlets, a USB port, and a Type-C port. Upon inspection, the consumer discovered that a spring had come out of the multi-plug and was jammed between the prongs of a plug that was inserted into the device. The consumer reported that they were unsure how long they had been breathing in the fumes from burning wires. The incident was reported to the CPSC SaferProducts database (Report ID 5813019, available at https://www.saferproducts.gov/PublicSearch/Detail?ReportId=5813019). The consumer stated that no physical injury occurred, but the outlet and plug were damaged. The consumer noted that had they not been awakened, the situation could have become life-threatening. The product was being used in an RV environment, which may have contributed to the hazard. Safety ConcernsImmediate Dangers: A dislodged internal component, such as a spring, bridging the prongs of a plug can create a direct short circuit, generating intense heat and sparks. This can ignite nearby flammable materials, including RV furnishings and wiring, leading to a fire. Environmental Triggers: The incident occurred in an ungrounded RV electrical environment. RVs often lack standard grounded wall outlets, and the user manual explicitly warns against use without proper grounding. The combination of an ungrounded system and a foreign object between prongs increases the risk of electrical arcing and fire. Warning Signs: The primary warning sign was the smell of burning wire insulation. Other potential signs include discoloration of the outlet or plug, visible sparks, or the device feeling hot to the touch. Any unusual odor from electrical equipment warrants immediate investigation. Property Damage Potential: The incident reportedly damaged the outlet and plug. In a worst-case scenario, an electrical fire could destroy the RV and its contents, posing a total loss of property and potential harm to occupants. What Our Clients SayWhat Consumers Should DoStop Using Immediately: If you notice any burning smell, unusual heat, or visible damage from a power strip or multi-plug, unplug it from the wall immediately and do not use it again. Preserve the Product: Keep the device and any damaged components in a safe place. Do not attempt to repair or discard them, as they may be needed for investigation by the manufacturer or legal counsel. Document the Incident: Take clear photos of the product, the damaged area, and the surrounding environment. Write down details such as the date, time, and any symptoms (e.g., smell, smoke). Save receipts and packaging if available. Contact the Manufacturer: Reach out to CyberPower Systems USA Inc. to report the incident and provide documentation. The manufacturer may request the product for analysis. Report to the CPSC: File a report on SaferProducts.gov to help alert other consumers and contribute to product safety data. Check for Recalls: Visit CPSC.gov to see if the product has been recalled or if there are any safety notices. If you or a loved one suffered property damage or injury from this product, you may want to speak with a product liability attorney about your options. Manufacturer's ResponseCyberPower stated that it could not substantiate the claims due to lack of contact from the consumer. The manufacturer noted that the product does not contain any springs, suggesting the foreign object came from outside. The user manual for the P6WSUC model warns users to "Plug the surge protector into a standard grounded wall outlet" and "DO NOT use if properly grounded outlets are not available." It also states not to use the product if there are "exposed conductors" and requires at least 10 meters (30 feet) of wire between the outlet and the electrical service panel. CyberPower noted that a fifth-wheel RV does not have a standard grounded wall outlet and likely violates these installation instructions.
Legal Help AvailableH Law Group is a California-based product liability law firm representing consumers injured by defective products. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. If you or a loved one was injured by CyberPower Unknown or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation. |
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