Hoverboards Prohibited at SUNY Plattsburgh

Hoverboards, also known as self-balancing scooters that look much like a skateboard, are electronic and require a rechargeable battery to operate. These devices have been related to many fire incidents across the United States. Several state and national safety and consumer agencies are now investigating these devices. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has also raised additional concerns and is asking that incidents be reported to them.

Colleges across the country are taking similar steps in prohibiting use on their campuses. Accordingly, SUNY Plattsburgh will not allow hoverboards and related devices to be charged, operated, stored, or used within the SUNY Plattsburgh main campus facilities, including but not limited to all residence halls, dining facilities, academic/administrative buildings, athletic facilities and outdoor areas. Students, faculty, or staff who own a self-balancing scooter, battery-operated scooter, or hands-free Segway are asked not to bring any such devices to campus when returning from winter break.

Violation of this policy could result in disciplinary action by the college. SUNY Plattsburgh may re-evaluate this directive in the future.

The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control has issued a safety alert regarding hoverboards.

For questions or concerns, contact Jerry Lottie, Interim Chief of University Police, at 518-564-2022, or Cathleen Eldridge, director, Environmental Health and Safety, at 518-564-5009.