Nikon recalls camera batteries

Nikon discovered a potential fire hazard in its batteries and started recalling them. The number of batteries to be replaced goes as high as 710.000.

The batteries are Nikon's model EN-EL3 Li-Ion rechargeables. The company says that the battery pack can suffer a short circuit, causing it to overheat and possibly melt, posing a potential hazard to consumers and the device they are placed into.

Reports have been received by Nikon from four users that confirm the incidents, but no injuries took place.

Nikon's digital SLR D100, D70 and D50 cameras came with the faulty battery packs EN-EL3. They are also sold separately as Nikon's model number 26265. The batteries began to be distributed by the company in May 2004 and can still be found at retail stores. Still, Nikon claims that the EN-EL3 batteries which wear the mark "Made in Japan" are not affected by this recall.

Users can determine if their battery pack is among the recalled ones by confirming that EN-EL3 is written on the side of the battery. Also, lot numbers are available to check on the company's website. Nikon advises the recalled battery users to immediately stop using and remove them from the camera's battery compartment.