Allie Pritchett, Reporter
MOUNT BERRY, Ga.- Berry College banned the newest gadget phenomenon, Hoverboards, on the campus due to fire safety concerns on Tuesday.
Hoverboards were one of the most talked about gifts of the holiday season in 2015. These self-balancing, two-wheeled devices were meant to look like you were levitating. They were powered by lithium-ion batteries, which have been investigated as the most likely source of fire incidents. The board has been reported to spontaneously ignite causing serious injuries among users.
“There are times we must prioritize safety over fun and this is one of them,” said Debbie Heida, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.
Not only were Berry students banned from using these transportation devices, but also they can no longer store them on campus.
“If you are going home over Easter break, please take your hoverboards home with you,” Heida said.
The Residence Life Office said they would store the hoverboards in a fireproof vault, if the students were not able to return home for the break.
“I think if I pay my own tuition to go here I should be able to commute around campus however I please,” junior Malcholm Graham said.
While the banning was focused on the recent news of hoverboard fire hazards, serious fall injuries have been reported as well. According to the Unites States Consumer Product Safety Commission Chairman, Elliot F. Kaye, many people have encountered fractures, contusions, and head or brain injuries.
“I think it is safe to assume that more people get hurt from falling off of them that from them catching on fire,” Graham said. “People can fall off bikes and skateboards too, so I see no difference between them.”
Berry hopes the suspension of the boards will be temporary, according to Heida. The school will allow them on campus once they are considered safe again.