A collectible helmet, produced to celebrate the launch of Fallout 76, is being recalled because it contains dangerous levels of mold. While no incidents or injuries have been reported at this time, consumers are urged to contact the retailer and return the product for a full refund.
The helmet, produced by Chronicle Collectibles and sold online by GameStop, originally retailed for $149.99. According to unboxing videos on YouTube, the Nuka Cola-themed helmet is nearly identical to the standard gray helmet included with the Fallout 76 collector’s edition. An announcement made on the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission website warned that the inner liner of the helmet can contain dangerous levels of mold.
“Mold can be present on the fabric insert inside the helmet, posing a risk of respiratory or other infections in individuals with compromised immune systems, damaged lungs or an allergy to mold,” states the recall notice. Around 20,000 units were made.
This is not the first issue related to a Fallout 76 collectible. When the game launched late last year, fans found that their collectible helmets had been shipped with a nylon carrying bag instead of the promised canvas bag. Bethesda initially offered $5 of in-game currency by way of apology. Mounting anger eventually led the publisher to offer a replacement canvas bag.
Update (Sept. 25): After our article was published, a representative from Chronicle Collectibles reached out to let us know that of the 20,000 Nuka Cola-themed helmets that were manufactured, only 32 were sold. It says that all of those customers were directly notified about the recall. All 20,000 units have been recalled.