FMCSA: Turn off, unplug that Samsung Galaxy Note7

Updated Oct 24, 2016

Got a Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphone in your truck? If so the federal government wants you to turn it off, keep it off and unplug it.

A Samsung Galaxy Note7 that burnedA Samsung Galaxy Note7 that burned

The Samsung Galaxy Note7 was been recalled by the manufacturer in September because of a defect in the phones’ batteries caused some to generate excessive heat, resulting in fires and explosions. The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a formal recall and the Federal Aviation Administration earlier this month banned the phone from flights.

While the FMCSA has not outright banned Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphones from trucks, the agency is recommending if you do have one in your truck that you take these precautions:

  • Turn off the device
  • Disconnect the device from any charging equipment
  • Disable all applications that could inadvertently activate the phone (e.g., alarm clock)
  • Protect the power switch to prevent its unintentional activation
  • Keep the device in carry-on baggage or on your person. Do not store in an inaccessible baggage compartment.