Recall: ORTOVOX Recalls Avalanche Transceivers Due to Loss of Emergency Communications Capability

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.

Name of product: Avalanche transceivers

Units: About 20,000 (In addition, about 7,000 were sold in Canada)

Manufacturer: Ortovox, of Germany

Hazard: 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.

Recall date: July 10, 2018

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Outdoor specialty stores, ski shops nationwide and direct to avalanche professionals, search and rescue personnel and mountain guides from July 2010 through April 2018 for about $350.

Importers: Deuter USA, of Longmont, Colo.

Manufactured in: Germany

Consumer contact: ORTOVOX toll-free at 877-384-9252 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT Monday through Thursday, email at ortovox.warranty@deuterusa.com or online at www.ortovox.com and click on RECALL 3+ for more information.

Recall number: 18-185