Exploding phones ‘a growing problem’

CURTIS SATHRE’s 13-year-old son Michael stood stunned, hand gushing blood after his mobile phone exploded.

US safety officials have received 83 reports of mobile phones exploding or catching fire in the past two years, usually because of bad batteries or chargers.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says burns to the face, neck and hip are among the injuries. The agency works with companies to create better battery standards.

“We’re concerned of the potential for more serious injuries or more fires,” said spokesman Scott Wolfson.

US phone makers say most explosions are caused by counterfeit batteries, but consumer advocates point to pressure to fit more capabilities into phones.

“If you’re cramming more and more power in a small space, you’re making a small bomb,” said Carl Hilliard, Wireless Consumers Alliance president.

Michael Sathre was picking up his Verizon LG phone when it exploded.

“It took my son two months to decide to be near a phone. But he needs one,” said his mother, Cris.