Reno Fire Marshal Bill Burney today said at least nine incidents of a remote-controlled helicopter toy overheating have prompted a voluntary recall by the toy's importer in conjunction with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Burney said the rechargeable battery inside the 'Protocol' Remote-Controlled Mini Helicopter toys, manufactured in China, can overheat resulting in the helicopter body melting posing a fire and burn hazard.

At least one report of a minor burn to a fingertip has been received, he noted.

Burney said anyone possessing the recalled toy helicopters should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact importer Ashley Collection Inc., d.b.a. Protocol, of New York, N.Y. for information on how to receive a replacement helicopter by calling (800) 261-1193 or visiting the company's Web site at www.protocoldesign.com .

Burney said the recall affects approximately 78,000 of the helicopter toys described as the 'Protocol' remote-controlled mini helicopter toys with model number starting with 1442.

The helicopter is made of foam and plastic and measures about 7 inches long.

'Protocol' is printed on the tail and on the side of the helicopter.

'1442-X' can be found on the packaging.

The remote-control component measures 5 1/2 inches by 4 3/4 inches.

The helicopter toys were sold at retail stores nationwide from October 2007 through December 2007 for between $30.00 and $50.00.

According to Burney, information on the recalled toy helicopters, including photos of the units, can also be found on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08395.html .

Burney suggested area residents with questions about fire safety in their home or in their business contact the Reno Fire Department's Division of Fire Prevention at (775) 334-2300.