Metra bans hoverboards, cites safety concerns

Metra has banned hoverboards on its trains due to concerns over potential fire hazards related to the self-balancing electronic scooters, the commuter railroad announced last week.

The Chicago-area railroad is the latest transit agency to prohibit passengers from bringing the scooters on trains, which are currently prohibited on Amtrak, Los Angeles' Metrolink, and all major U.S. airlines. Use of the scooters also has been reportedly banned or restricted at more than 20 college campuses across the country and on New York City Streets, Metra officials said in a press release.

"There have been multiple reports of fires and injuries caused by hoverboard use throughout the country, and while there have been no incidents on Metra, we simply want to be proactive by banning this potential fire hazard from being carried on our trains," said Metra Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Don Orseno.

Metra's onboard personnel that see anyone attempting to board a train with a hoverboard in their possession will require that person to exit the train, railroad officials said.