Florida Injury Lawyer Blog

Although Halloween is a time to watch scary movies and listen to ghost stories, these are not the real dangers of this time of year. Although many parents carefully check their children’s candy for tampering, even candy safety does not cause as many injuries as fire during Halloween. For many children and teens, fires and burn injuries are the real personal injuries which are a risk at this time of year. There are many things that parents can do to help prevent these common injuries:

1) Light candles with lights rather than candles. Jack o’ lanterns are a major cause of burn injuries each year, as children peer into jack o’ lanterns or get too close with their costumes. The best way to prevent these accidents is to use specially-designed LED or portable lights in pumpkins rather than candles. These are not only safer, but they can light your carved pumpkin for a much longer time.

2) Look out for candles and dry ice. Many families decorate their homes with candles to create that “spooky” Halloween look. Some families also add ice to punch bowls to create steaming “witches brews.” While both these ideas can make your home festive, candles and dry ice can pose a burn hazard. If you have small children, you will need to either supervise carefully or avoid candles and dry ice for a few years, until your children know how to stay safe. At the very least, ensure that dry ice and candles are kept well out of reach of small children.

3) Choose costumes carefully. Look for age-appropriate costumes and ensure that you follow any safety precautions on store-bought costumes. Whether you are making your own costumes or renting or buying costumes, make sure that outfits fit correctly, with no dangling pieces that can cause trip and fall accidents, fires, or choking. Where possible, look for costumes made of non-flammable materials.

4) Read labels on makeup and costume accessories. Keep in mind that cosmetics can also cause burns and rashes on sensitive skin. Always buy high-quality makeup for costumes and check for freshness – throw out cosmetics that are expired. Test makeup on a small area for allergies before playing makeup over an entire face.

5) Do not leave jack o’ lanterns, candles, and other home décor accessories unattended. Dry ice, candles, lit jack o’ lanterns, external lights, lanterns, and other decorations can be a fire hazard if left burning all night without supervision. Make sure that someone is always present to supervise.

According to the Burn Institute, about 2.4 million Americans sustain burn injuries each year. Of these, about 75,000 people require hospitalization while 650,000 require medical treatment. Burn injuries often occur as a result of fires, chemical burns, hot water burns, or as a result of car accidents.

Hot water burns are the most common cause of burn injuries to children, according to the Burn Institute. They are also a very preventable form of injury. Parents can protect their children from hot water burns by reducing the hot water heater temperature to 120 degrees F and by testing bath water before a child’s bath. Additionally, parents should avoid carrying hot water near children and should cook hot liquids on the back of the stove. In a household with younger children, do not use tablecloths, since a child can easily pull dishes and cups of hot water on themselves by tugging at the cloth. Careful supervision in the kitchen and the bathroom are also needed to prevent injuries.

In addition to hot water, everyday appliances and items – such as stoves and matches – can easily lead to childhood burn injuries. The Burn Institute recommends that to prevent such injuries, parents keep any hot appliance – including hair straighteners, curling irons, hair drivers, heaters, stoves, and other items – well secured from children. Matches, lighters, and flammable fluids should also be carefully locked away where children cannot get them.

Supervision is a key to burn prevention. Many burn injuries to minors and children occur because a child was playing with a dangerous item without adequate supervision. For this reason, it is important to blow out candles and turn off portable heaters when leaving a room. Do not allow children to play with fireworks. If you have gas or electric heaters or open fires in your home, install fire guards. Keep children away from outdoor grills. Use covers for electrical outlets to prevent electrical burns.

Hot packs, hot water bottles, and heating pads are soothing if you have aches and pains, but these items can also cause burns. You can prevent injuries caused by heating pads by inspecting your heating packs before each use. If a pack is damaged, replace it. Always carefully read and follow the instructions that came with your heating device and always use the protective cover that keeps the hot element of your heating pad from touching your skin. Do not use heating pads for more than 15 to 20 minutes per use and never place a heating pad underneath a person – always place it loosely on top of an affected area. Lying down on a heating pad or putting pressure on a heating pad underneath you can cause the device to overheat. Always use heating pads only on adults who are awake and in good physical condition.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, families can also help prevent burn injuries by installing a working smoke detector in the home and by developing a fire escape plan. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year. Buy and learn to use a fire extinguisher. Preventing fires can help prevent burn injuries as well.

Smoke detectors prevent burn injuries, smoke inhalation, fire fatalities, and other personal injuries related to fire because they alert house inhabitants that a fire has started. Smoke alarms give victims a warning system so that they can safely escape a burning building, but not all smoke detectors are built the same.

A new study has found that residential photoelectric alarms are a better choice, as they are more likely to remain working. The study, conducted by the Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center (HIPRC) in conjunction with the University of Washington in Seattle, evaluated ionization alarms as well as photoelectric household smoke alarms and concluded that photoelectric types are far more likely to continue functioning correctly after they are installed. Despite this, most smoke alarms in the US are ionization alarms.

Researchers in the study examined 750 Washington state households and discovered that within 9 months of installation, 5% of the photoelectric smoke alarms and 20% of the ionized smoke alarms did not work. Six months after the initial follow-up, researchers returned to the homes and found a similar trend – many more of the ionization alarms were not working, while most of the photoelectric smoke alarms were working.

The problem appeared to be that home residents were disconnecting or removing the smoke alarm battery. In most cases, this was done with the ionization smoke alarms because they were more likely to go off and sound for reasons other than fire – during cooking, for example. Residents most often cited nuisance and false alarms as the reason they removed the smoke alarm battery.

Both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors work by detecting particles that are present in combustion. However, ionization smoke alarms work by detecting particles from rapid combustion while photoelectric smoke detectors work by using optical sensors to detect smoldering, slow fires. This makes photoelectric smoke detectors less likely to sound off during cooking.

The findings are significant for a number of reasons. First, the importance of smoke alarms is widely known but the study has shown that the inconvenience of some alarms may be leading homeowners to forgo a potentially life-saving device. Secondly, since many fires begin in the kitchen area, a smoke detector near this area is important. A smoke detector that does not go off during cooking may be an important way to encourage homeowners to keep their smoke alarm functional.

The American Red Cross, the National Fire Protection Association, and Florida Fire Marshal Alex are warning Florida residents about the risks of using alternative forms of fuel. The move comes after a survey conducted in late September showed that Florida residents were concerned about rising fuel costs. In fact, many Florida residents surveyed planned to supplement their heating with stoves, ovens, portable space heaters and fireplaces to keep fuel costs low.

According to Sink, home fires already cause far too many fatalities and serious burn injuries as well as other forms of personal injury. Those residents considering using alternative sources of energy should proceed with caution, he notes. Stoves and ovens should be used for cooking only and families should be cautious and use space heaters with automatic shutoffs only to prevent fires. Anyone planning on using a fireplace to stay warm this winter should have that fireplace cleaned professionally and checked by a professional – items stuck in chimneys and build-up can cause fire.

Sink is worried that Florida residents hoping to use alternative forms of fuel are not careful enough with their heating options. According to the September survey, 36% of participants with fireplaces never cleaned or had their chimneys inspected. Another 23% of survey participants did not think it was vital that someone is home when the stove or oven are on or when food is cooking on the stove.

More than 23 700 Florida homes were affected by fire in 2007. More than 144 Florida residents died from fires last year. Another 592 suffered burn injuries and other personal injuries as a result of fire. To prevent such high numbers in 2008, Sink suggests that Florida residents:

*Install smoke detectors and ensure that those detectors are in working condition.
*Develop a fire escape plan that is familiar to everyone in the family.
*Avoid using extension cords with space heaters and portable heaters.
*Install a carbon monoxide detector if fireplaces or wood burning stoves will be used in the home.
*Turn out lights, turn off appliances and blow out candles before leaving the house and before retiring to bed.
*Monitor candles carefully the entire time they are lit, especially if children or pets are present.
*Keep a working fire extinguisher or two in the home.
*Contact the gas company to re-light the pilot light or to do any other furnace maintenance.
*Practice a fire escape plan regularly.
*Avoid placing space heaters in bedrooms, especially children’s bedrooms.
*Keep space heaters and alternate forms of heat at least three feet away from walls, curtains, furniture, and other flammables.

Making the right decisions about burn treatment soon after a burn injury takes place can make all the difference. Burns are a very serious and potentially devastating personal injury, since they can cause disfigurement as well as internal damage. If you see someone who has just sustain a burn, take these steps:

1) Get the victim to “Stop, Drop, and Roll.” This will smother any remaining flames.
2) Attempt to remove any clothing that is burned. If the burn is so severe that the clothing sticks to the skin, tear or cut the clothing around the burned area.
3) Remove any necklaces, belts, tight clothing, jewellery and other snug items from the burned areas and the victim’s midsection and neck. Burned areas swell quickly, and any tight clothing or accessories can affect breathing or can even cause choking.

Beyond this basic first aid, you will want to adapt your reaction to a burn injury by considering the type of burn that has been sustained:

1) First-Degree Burns. These burns – which can include sunburns – generally only affect the top layer of skin. Skin that has sustained a first-degree burn may be slightly swollen, red, and painful to the touch. With this sort of burn injury, it is best to apply cool, fresh water or a cold rag to reduce the pain. Once the pain subsides, cover the burn with a clean cloth or non-adhesive bandage. Usually, first-degree burns heal on their won, although over-the-counter pain medication can help make the process less painful. Do avoid applying butter or ointments to the burn, however, as these remedies can lead to infection. Although first-degree burns are not usually considered serious, they can be if the victim is elderly or an infant. First-degree burns that cover a large area of the body should always receive prompt medical attention, no matter what the age of the victim.

2) Second-Degree Burns. These burns affect the first two layers of skin. Signs of a second-degree burn in include pain, blisters, some loss of skin, reddened skin, and a glossy appearance to the skin. These burns should be treated first by having cool compressed or cool water applied to the area. Continue this treatment for 10 to 15 minutes. Elevate arms of legs that are affected by the burn and cover the burned areas with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. Avoid applying ointments and butter and avoid breaking any blisters on the skin. With second-degree burns, you will want to prevent the victim from going into shock. To do this, lay the victim flat, cover him or her with a blanket or coat and elevate his or her legs about one foot. You should not attempt this if the victim may have suffered a head injury, spinal cord injury, neck injury, back injury, or leg injury. If the victim is uncomfortable with legs elevated, do not keep the victim in that position. Someone who has sustained second-degree burns will need further medical treatment right away. The burns will not heal on their own.

3) Third-Degree Burns. This severe burn penetrates the skin and destroys tissue underneath the skin. Signs of third-degree burns include dry and leathery skin, charred skin, and skin with white, brown and black patches. There is often a visible loss of skin layers with a third-degree burn, although a victim will not always feel pain. This sort of burn is considered a serious medical emergency and your first priority is to get paramedics of emergency personnel on the scene. While waiting for help to arrive, you may cover the burn very lightly with a lint-less clean cloth or gauze. Shock is quite common with third-degree burns, so place the victim in shock position – lay the victim flat, elevate feet about twelve inches, and keep the person warm and comfortable. Where possible, elevate the burned areas higher than the victim’s head. As with all burns, avoid applying any ointment or butter to the wound. If the victim’s face has sustained third-degree burns, he or she may have trouble speaking or breathing. Have the victim sit up and watch for possible breathing problems. If it possible that there is an airway burn and you are placing the victim in the shock position, make sure that the victim’s head is flat on the floor. Do not place a pillow under the victim’s head, as this can close the airway.

In Florida, many burn injuries occur inside the home, where hot liquids, chemicals, and fires can occur inside the home. However, each year many Florida residents are injured and sustain burn injuries in public places, such as schools, hotels, and places of work. These burns can be especially difficult to deal with because you may be less familiar with public surroundings and you may have less access to a first aid kit or other help. If a fire breaks out in a public building, pushing and panic from others caught in the fire can cause slip and fall accidents, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries as everyone runs for the exits. To reduce your chances of serious burn injuries in Florida’s public buildings:

1) Get to know the evacuation plans and the exits in buildings where you work and stay. Get to know exits, especially. In the event of a fire, the building may be very dark, so you need to be certain where you are going. In most buildings, fire exits are clearly marked with lit signs.

2) Keep all fire exits are unlocked and clear of clutter. If you notice that a building you visit frequently has inaccessible fire exits, talk to the manager or owner of the building. He or she is violating fire codes by not providing easy access to fire exits. If the problem persists, do not be shy about reporting the fire hazard.

3) Look for the smoke detectors. Each public building should have them. Make sure that these detectors work and that you know what the alarm sounds like. In a building where you spend a lot of time – such as the place you work or volunteer – suggest fire drills.

4) Treat every alarm as though it is a fire. Some fire alarms malfunction or are pulled by pranksters regularly, and this makes people inside the building blasé about responding to the alarm. In a fire situation, this can be a real danger. As soon as you hear the alarm, leave the building and pull doors closed behind you as you go.

5) If you are trapped in a building during a fire, crawl low to the ground to avoid smoke inhalation. Cover your mouth and nose with a moist cloth and try to leave the building if it is safe to do so. Before opening any door, check to see whether the doorknob and space around the door is hot. If it is hot, do not open the door as fire may be very close. If the door is cool, open the door slowly, check to see that the route is clear and close the door behind you when you leave. Draw attention to your plight if you cannot get out. Yell for help out of the window, call the fire department, or wave a large object out a window to draw attention to yourself. Get away from the fire and try to close as many doors as possible to give yourself a cushion. Place cloth under all doors to seal out smoke and wait for help.

Continue reading "What to do for Burn Injuries in Florida Public Places" »

If someone is burned by electricity, chemicals, or heat, the victim needs help right away. Minor burns can cause scarring and severe pain. Burns that penetrate beneath the surface of the skin can damage tissue, fat, and bones. Electrical burns can be especially tricky to diagnose or treat on the spot, since they may not leave marks at all. Electrical burns, even when they leave no visible injury, however, can damage tissues and even organs. If an electric jolt disturbs a victim’s heart rhythm cardiac arrest can be the result. Additionally, the jolt of electricity that can cause electrical burns can also throw a victim, causing spinal corn injuries, broken bones, brain injuries, and other damage. If you see that an electrical jolt or burn has taken place, you should:

1) Call 911 or the local emergency number. This is especially the case if the victim appears to be in distress, is confused, is having trouble breathing, has an irregular heartbeat, or has lost consciousness. Even if the victim appears to be fine, it is important to get medical help right away, since the electrical charge may have caused damage that is not immediately evident.

2) While waiting for medical help to arrive, evaluate the situation first. Is the person still in contact with the electrical source? Avoid touching the victim if this is the case, since he or she may pass the current to you. If the victim is conscious, assure him or her that help is on the way and ask about medical history and any pain the victim is feeling. That way, even if the victim loses consciousness before help can arrive, you can pass on important medical information – such as blood type, existing medical conditions, allergies, and the victim’s name – to the emergency medical personnel.

3) If possible, turn off the source of electricity. If you cannot do this, try to move the source of electricity away from both you and the victim. You can do this safely by using a non-conducting object that is made of cardboard, plastic or wood.

4) Check to see if the victim is breathing. If he or she is not, begin CPR.

5) Lay the victim down in a position where the victim’s head is slightly lower than the abdomen. Elevate the legs. This can help prevent shock.

Continue reading "Electric Burn Injuries in Florida – How to Help" »

Each year across the country over two million Americans sustain burn injuries. Of these victims, about 70,000 require hospital care. The American College of Emergency Physicians notes that many burns are entirely preventable and that a disproportionately large number of burns affect minors and young children. Florida residents can reduce the incidence of burns by:

*Watching for hot liquids. Many injuries to minors and children occur because hot liquids are left where children can spill the liquids on themselves. To prevent this, keep pot handles turned away from the front of the stove when cooking. Also, avoid leaving hot cups or bowls of liquid on tables or counter edges, where children may be able to reach them. In the same vein, avoid carrying hot liquids while holding your child or while near your child.

*Testing food temperatures. Before feeding your child, make sure that you test the temperature of the food. Be especially wary of food heated in the microwave – microwaves can heat food unevenly, so that it is hot inside and lukewarm outside.

*Replacing all lighters in the home with child-resistant lighters. It is important to note that even with child-resistant lighters, it is crucial to keep all matches and lighters in a locked cupboard or cabinet, where children cannot reach. Even though a product is labeled “child-resistant” that does not mean that a child will not be able to use the lighter with some practice.

*Setting your water heater set to between 120º and 125º F. Before placing your child in the bath, test the bath water. Hot water from your tap can scald and even seriously burn a small child.

*Watching out for electrical burns. Electrocution and burns can occur when electrical cords become worn, so always replace electrical cords that have seen a lot of wear and tear. Any unused electric outlets should also be covered with safety caps.

*Keeping aware of product recalls. Many electrical appliances are recalled each year because they are a fire hazard. Many product liability claims are also filed in courts each year over products that pose a danger in the home. To protect yourself and your family, buy appliances new (rather than purchasing used products) and submit your warranty or registration card right away. The manufacturer will contact you if the product you have bought has a defect. Also, keep alert to news of product recalls. Immediately stop using any product that may be recalled.

Continue reading "Putting a Halt to Florida Burn Injuries" »

Even the most careful parents cannot prevent every childhood injury. In many cases, injuries to minors and children occur even when a parent has done everything possible to be cautious. If your child’s injury is a burn injury, this is what you must do:

1) If your child has sustained a thermal injury by touching a source of high heat, such as a flame, hot liquid, steam, or hot appliance:
*Take your child away from the source of heat and either turn the appliance off or put out the flame.
*If the injury is severe, call 911 and follow the direction provided by the dispatcher until help arrives.
*If possible, remove burned or hot clothing.
*Place the affected area under running water within 30 seconds of the injury.
*Halt any bleeding, using a clean cloth or sterile gauze pad.
*Keep the child’s body temperature constant.

2) If your child has sustained a chemical burn by touching a powerful acid or base such as pool chlorine, bleach, concrete mix, or some other substance:

*If the injury is severe, call 911 and follow the direction provided by the dispatcher until help arrives.
*Read the label on the chemical to learn of any special instruction in case of skin contact. Follow any directions given.
*Rinse the injured are with cool, running water. Do this for 20 minutes or more. If the burning agent is a powder, dust it off thoroughly before rinsing.
*Even if you haven’t called 911, talk to your local emergency room, doctor, walk-in clinic or poison control center. With a chemical burn, you have no way of knowing whether the chemical has penetrated. A bad reaction can occur later on if the injury is left untreated.

3) If your child has sustained an electrical burn by coming into contact with powerful electric currents, burn injuries may not be noticeable. However, you must:

*Call 911 and follow the direction provided by the dispatcher until help arrives.
*Evaluate to see whether the child is still in contact with the electrical source. If he or she is, do not touch the child.
*Shut off the electrical current or pull the plug on the appliance, if safe to do so.
*Give CPR if the child is not breathing.
*If there are any obvious burns, cover clean cloth or gauze. Avoid using any fluffy material, as it can make the burn worse.
*Avoid moving the child unless instructed by a medical professional. The tissues in the body may be damaged by the electricity.

If your child has suffered a burn injury due to someone’s recklessness or due to a possible product liability case, you need to contact a qualified Florida attorney to prevent others from being injured in the same way. You will also want to get the best possible help for your child, and a good Florida lawyer can ensure that you get this help. If you need an experienced Florida attorney, arrange for a free, no-obligation consultation by calling 1- 800-535-2962 (1 800 5 FLAXMAN).

According to the Shriners of North America, fire is responsible for 600 deaths of children 14 and under each year. Another 3,400 children experience burn injuries as a result of fire. Almost half of children who sustain fire-related injuries are younger than 5 years of age. According to the Shriners of North America, parents can safeguard their children by:

* Installing smoke detectors on every level of a home. It is especially important to place smoke detectors on the ceiling just outside bedroom doors. Always follow manufacturer’s directions when positioning and installing smoke detectors. One a month, test the detectors and replace batteries once a year.

*Develop a fire plan. Instruct your family on how to escape from each room. Have at least two ways to escape from each room. If you children’s rooms are on a second or third floor, provide chain ladders which can be used in event of an emergency. Practice the fire plan at least twice a year.

*Have a first aid kit in your home and replace items as they expire or are used up. Place emergency numbers and information in the kit or near your phone for easy access.

*Develop a safe home. Keep lighters, matches, and appliances out of reach of children. Never leave appliances such as fryers or burning items such as candles unattended, even for short periods of time. Store propane and gasoline outdoors, in a well-ventilated area. Unplug electrical appliances when not in use and check periodically to see whether the appliances you use have been recalled due to product liability claims or fire hazards. Set your water heater to 120-125 degrees Fahrenheit.

*Supervise children constantly. Many serious personal injuries to minors and children occur because a child was left unsupervised for just a short while.

*When bathing your children, make sure that you add cold water and then gradually hot water. Do not allow your children to play with the faucets.

Many injuries each year occur in homes. You can make your home safer for yourself and your family by using this checklist to accident-proof your home:

*Does your homes have enough smoke detectors and are the alarms in good condition? Batteries should be replaced frequently. Smoke detectors are your first defence against a fire and can allow you to escape your home before burn injuries and other serious injuries occur.

*Are all the electrical extension cords in your home in good condition and being used properly? Electrical extension cords should not be stretched across heavy traffic areas of your home and should be replaced at first sign of wear.

*Are your electrical outlets in good condition and not overloading? Your unused outlets should be covered or locked to prevent accidents, as well.

*Are your fuses replaced with the proper size fuses? Pennies and other substitutes are only for short-term replacement.

*Can you turn off your electricity and gas? Knowing how to do this can prevent accidents and injuries in the event of an emergency.

*Are your floors in good condition and made with a non-skid surface? Many slip and fall accidents occur in the home, so fix slippery surfaces, floor covering that are loose, and other hazards at once.

*Are your fireplaces secured? There should be a good screen affixed to your fireplace and if your fireplaces are used, you should have chimney cleaners check your fireplace and chimney regularly to help prevent fires.

*How are you using candles? Candles should be well away from flammable surfaces (this includes walls!) and should rest on sturdy, fire-resistant candle holders. If you have children or pets, only burn candles when you can watch them constantly. Leaving a candle and toddler alone for a few minutes while you answer the door is enough to cause a burn injury.

*Do you have a fire extinguisher in good condition on each floor?

*Do you have an emergency kit – with cash, ID, insurance polices, spare keys, and emergency numbers, in an easy-to-access spot in case of an emergency?

*Do your closet and bathroom doors have safety release locks to prevent someone from becoming trapped inside?

*Is all your paint lead-free? If you are not sure, have an expert in to check?

*Have you checked your appliances and children’s products to see whether they are affected by recent recalls?

*Are your windows securely fastened?

*Are hallways and stairway approaches free of throw rugs and clutter?

*Are stairs in good shape? All the stairs in your home should be in good repair and should have steps of the same height and width. Each staircase should have sturdy railings or banisters. If you have children, gates at the bottom and top of stairways are a must.

*Is your home well-lighted?

*Is your kitchen safe? Your curtains should not be close to any heating appliance (such as a stove or toaster) and appliances should be disconnected when not in use. Any gas appliances should have flue ventilation and any larger appliances should lock so that children cannot get trapped inside.

*Are your heating systems in good shape? Furnaces and flues must be inspected regularly and air ducts and filters must be cleaned regularly.

*Is your home well-ventilated, especially when the heating is on?

*Is there a non-smoking policy in your home? There should be – smoke leaves toxins that can linger in your home for months, and cigarettes cause many home fires each year.

*In your bathrooms, are your tubs and showers supplied with non-skid mats and non-stick surfaces? You might want to add grip bars, especially if your bathrooms are used by an elderly person.

*Are medications and chemicals stored securely? Are chemicals and foods thrown out by their best-before date?

*Are electrical appliances in your home kept away from water?

*Is your walkway, driveway, sidewalk, and outdoor areas kept free of debris and snow?

Most homes in Florida today have microwave ovens. Microwaves allow for easy reheating, cooking, and thawing. However, according to the FDA, microwave ovens can also potentially lead to serious burn injuries. According to the FDA, there have been reports of serious skin burning and scalding, especially on people's faces and hands. This has resulted when hot water heated in a microwave overflows or erupts out of a cup because of overheating in the microwave oven.

The problem seems to stem from the fact that water in a microwave oven can easily be overheated, causing superheated water, or water that is past its boiling temperature. Even though the water does not to boil, it can in fact be superheated and can cause an eruption when removed from the microwave oven. There is no way to tell whether the water is a danger simply by looking at the fluid.

According to the FDA, the risk of burns is high especially when water is heated in a clean cup in the microwave. The risk of burn injuries is greatly reduced if other items are added to the water before heating. For example, adding instant coffee, cocoa, sugar, and other items into the water greatly reduces the risk of burning. In cases where water is superheated in the microwave, any small disturbance or movement will cause the water to violently erupt, and will cause the boiling water to explode out of the cup or container. For example, someone removing the cup from the microwave, pouring in a spoonful of coffee or sugar, may inadvertently provoke violent explosion of the water out of the cup.

According to the FDA, there are several things that customers can do to avoid superheated water in microwave ovens. Firstly, they recommend that all customers read the instructions, precautions, and recommendations found in the instruction manual for their microwave oven. The microwave oven instruction manual should offer the heating time for liquids and other items. Avoid using excessive amounts of time when heating liquids or water in the microwave. According to the FDA, eggs should also be scrambled or pierced before being heated. Eggs, too, can also overheat and explode onto customers faces and hands, causing serious burn injuries. To prevent burn injuries to minors and children, children should always be supervised when using microwaves.

The FDA also recommends that customers look at the microwave oven they own to find out the best time setting and the best temperature setting for heating water. Customers should use this setting regularly to heat the water only to the desired temperature. Heating the water excessively will not be helpful, and as these reports suggest, may be dangerous.

Of course, some burn injuries resulting from household appliances are caused by defective products. Customers may want to check recall notices to determine whether their microwave ovens have flaws that can be harmful. If you or a loved one has been injured by superheated water resulting from a defective microwave oven or other appliance, you may need to launch a products liability case in order to get all the help you are legally entitled to under the law. Contact a good Florida attorney in order to discuss all your legal options.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a consumer alert regarding common household batteries. Studies conducted show that about approximately 3,700 people annually are treated in emergency rooms for chemical burns caused by common household batteries. About 20% of these victims, according to the CPSC, are children 16 years of age or younger.

Most of these injuries to minors and children occur when batteries rupture or overheat. There are many ways that this can happen, the CPSC reports. Using the wrong charger or re-charging batteries not meant to be recharged can cause burn injuries. Also, mixing alkaline and carbon-zinc batteries or new and old batteries in the same appliance can cause the batteries to overheat and rupture. The CPSC recommends always changing all the batteries of an appliance with all new batteries from the same pack.

Customers may also want to ensure that they are placing batteries in correctly. Placing the positive end where the negative end belongs and vice versa can cause the battery to overheat. Since children may not understand how to properly install batteries, it is important that parents always install and replace batteries themselves. Children should be warned not to play with batteries or to replace or recharge them themselves. Batteries should also be kept well out of reach of children. Curious youngsters may try to rupture a battery to see how it works or may inadvertently place the battery on a hot surface, situations which can cause the batteries to explode or cause serious burns.

If appliances are not in use for a while, it is a good practice to remove batteries completely. Older batteries may leak, and the next person to attempt replacing the batteries in the appliance may come into contact with corrosive chemicals. In some cases, battery-related burn injuries occur because a product or battery is defective. Checking product recalls in the news and ensuring that battery-powered appliances are working well are two good ways to ensure that a product liability claim does not have to take place after a burn.

If you or a loved one do suffer a burn injury because of a household battery caused by a defect, look for a good Florida attorney. A qualified Florida lawyer can look into the situation and can take steps to ensure that others are not injured by the defect. A good Florida attorney can also work on your behalf to ensure that you get the assistance you are entitled to under the law. This assistance can be invaluable in helping you to get proper medical care as you recover.

While many of us assume that burns occur mainly in fires, this is not the case. Burns from hot water and from chemicals are also very common in Florida and across the country. Chemical burns, especially, can occur in car accidents, construction accidents, and in other situations where a corrosive chemical touches the skin.

If you or someone you know suffer a chemical burn, administer first aid by following these steps:

1) Call 911 or seek medical assistance at once if the burn is severe or if you are unsure about what the chemical involved is. Call the local poison control center if you know what the substance is and ask for specific first aid advice.

2) If the chemical is lime or a powdery substance, brush it off skin first. Remove the chemical by rinsing the affected area in cool, running water for at least 15 minutes.

3) Remove any clothing items or accessories that have been affected by the chemical.

4) Wrap the affected area very loosely using a clean cloth or sterile gauze.

Minor chemical burns will often heal by themselves, but it is a good idea to seek medical help to be on the safe side. Medical supervision is important in preventing infection and other complications. If you notice any of the following symptoms, the chemical burn is a medical emergency and should receive emergency medical assistance right away:

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Burn injuries in Florida each year cause serious damage. These personal injuries are not only very painful, but they can cause scarring and permanent damage to physical appearance that can be very traumatic. Serious burn wounds can even affect the tendons, muscles, and even the organs protected by the skin, causing serious injuries that can hamper mobility.

Although Florida burn injuries are very common, Florida attorneys often notice that victims of these injuries are not always fully compensated or get the help they need. Burn injuries often cause damage that requires cosmetic surgery and most medical insurance does not cover that sort of treatment. Plus, many insurers and defenders minimize the damage caused by a burn injury.

If you or a loved one have suffered a minor burn, there are several things you can do. In the case of a minor burn, hold the affected area under cool running water for 15 minutes. Avoid popping any blisters that form and avoid applying butter or ointments to the area. Cover the affected area with dry gauze. If minor burns occur on the feet, face, hands, or genitalia, contact a physician right away, since even minor burns on these areas can be more serious than they appear. Similarly, always contact a doctor right away if an infant or young child sustains a minor burn. Even minor burn injuries to minors and children can be serious and may require a doctor’s supervision.

If you or a loved one have suffered a severe burn, call 911 immediately. Run cool water – never ice – over the affected area and raise any burned limbs of areas to minimize the area. Keep the injured party from becoming overheated or chilled. In cases of a severe burn, do not try to remove clothing from the burned area. Avoid putting any grease or ointment on the affected area and do not give the injured party anything to eat or drink. Ask the 911 operator for instructions if you are not sure what to do. If blisters form before help can arrive, do not pop the blisters.

If you or a loved one have suffered a burn injury because of someone’s reckless or negligent behavior, you are entitled under law to receive compensation that can help you pay for treatment and help. Contact a qualified Florida attorney to learn about your legal options.

According to the University of Missouri, almost 2 million people are treated annually for burns in the US. Of these, about 112 000 cases are scald burns caused by hot water. Although many people associate burn injuries with fires, the National Safety Council reports that the US has the highest rate of burns in the industrialized world, and a good portion of those burns are caused by something as simple as hot water.

According to Safe Kids Coalition, about 37,000 of scald burn victims are 14 years of age or under, and about 18,000 scald victims are 5 or under. Reports note that when it comes to scald injuries to minors and children, the culprit is often as simple as hot baths. The University of Missouri reports that about half of childhood scald injuries occur because parents place their children in bath water that is too hot. In some cases, though, scalding occurs because children turn on the faucet or because they fall into water that is too hot. Some scalding are the result of child abuse.

Since children have thinner skin, they can burn faster. In fact, burns are the second leading cause of death for children between the ages of 0 and 5, according to some reports. Each day, across the country, 300 children are admitted to emergency rooms for scalds and burn injuries caused by hot water. Each year, 3000 of these patients require hospitalization for their injuries.

Water heaters may be a culprit. Most heaters are automatically set at 140 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. A child placed in water that is 150 degrees will develop third degree burns in 2 seconds after submersion. At 140 degrees, it will take 5 seconds to develop the same injuries. If the water is at 130 degrees, it will take the child 30 seconds to develop third degree burns. In cases where a product defect is making the water hot, the water temperature of a household may be even hotter.

Experts suggest that parents turn down the water temperature of their water heaters. It is best to check the heater in the morning, before the hot water has been used. To test the warmth of the water, turn on a hot water tap for two minutes and hold a candy or outdoor thermometer in the stream of water. If the temperature is higher than 120 or 125 degrees, turn down the water heater thermostat. Wait 24 hours and retest the water. If you are unable to bring down the heat of your water, call a professional. You may have a defective product or mechanical problem with your heater.

Now that it is summer in Florida, late summer parties and the coming long weekends will inevitably mean fireworks. Fireworks have a fascinating history that goes back to ancient China, and Pyrotechnics can mean a beautiful show, but bright sparks all to often mean burn injuries and other serious personal injuries during the summer months.

In 2003 alone, an estimated 9 300 Americans were treated in hospitals for burns and other injuries resulting from fireworks. Four people succumbed to their injuries. Of those injured by fireworks each year, the majority are children. Boys between the ages of 5 and 9 are most likely to be injured and in fact about 45% of all fireworks-related injuries happen to children 14 years of age or younger.

More than half of all fireworks-related injuries are burns, although injuries to the hands, eyes, and face are also common. Lacerations and contusions are quite common with fireworks-related injuries. Plus, fireworks also contribute to residential fires and property damage as well.

According to experts, there are a number of reasons behind these types of injuries. The availability of "Class C" and "Class B" fireworks, which can ignite clothing and fly into the face of those setting the fireworks off, are widely available, even in those states that have strict restrictions against these products. Under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, the most dangerous types of fireworks are prohibited, but they can still often be purchased. Secondly, many people who are injured by fireworks are too close to the fireworks when they explode. Among children who suffer burn injuries and other serious personal injury from fireworks, curiosity and unsupervised use of the products lead to many injuries. Children may be not agile enough to light fireworks and get to a safe distance, as well. Finally, some experimentation leads to fireworks-related injury each year. In particular, those fireworks that are home-made from several individual products can cause hazardous and unpredictable explosions that lead to property damage and injury.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to allow trained professionals to handle displays. Audiences are far less likely to be injured than those who actually handle the fireworks themselves. Nevertheless, if you or a loved one has been injured by a fireworks display and you believe that defective products or negligence led to injury, contact a good Florida attorney. Florida lawyers can offer you legal assistance that can ensure that you get the assistance you are entitled to by law.

Now that summer has arrived in Florida, more barbequing and more time spent at home, combined with hot, dry conditions can create the ideal environment for home fires. Those who are interested in camping and spending time outdoors, too, must obviously worry about fires in forests and other natural environments.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), deaths caused by fires and burns are the fifth most common cause of accidental deaths in the country. In fact, studies have shown that in 2005, across the country, someone died in a fire about every 143 minutes, on average, and someone suffered a personal injury from fire, on average, every 29 minutes.

In 2005 alone, fire departments rushed to 396 000 home fires across the country. Many of these fires were in residential homes and those who succumbed to injuries usually perished from toxic gases or smoke inhalation. In most residential fires, cooking caused the flames. In 2005, home fires resulted in almost $7 billion in property damage. The cost of fatal fire and burn injuries that same year was about $3 billion.

According to statistics, home fires are far more likely to be fatal if there are no smoke alarms in a home. In fact, about half of all deaths in residential fires occur in homes with no alarms. Simply installing smoke alarms can help reduce the chances of personal injuries, burns, and deaths that are caused by fires. In homes with smoke alarms, periodic inspection of the alarms will ensure that the units are working properly.

It is also important to remember that alcohol often plays a role in serious fire-related injuries and deaths. In fact, in about 40% of home fire deaths, alcohol use is thought to play a role. Being responsible can help ensure less injury and less fatalities as a result of fire.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a fire, contact a good Florida attorney. If a fire was caused through negligence or if negligence ensured that adequate help or prevention was not in place, you or your loved one may be entitled to compensation under the law. These proceeds can help with medical costs, rehabilitation costs and with surgery costs to help you and your family heal.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are a number of common products that cause burn injuries each year. Unfortunately, many people are simply not aware of the dangers. The Florida attorneys at The Law Offices of Flaxman & Lopez want everyone to be aware of these common hazards:

*Mattresses and Bedding. About 20,800 fires start in bedding and mattresses annually. Current federal guidelines require that bedding products resist ignition from a smoldering fire caused by a cigarette. Tests on mattresses have shown that mattresses can be engulfed in deadly flames in only three minutes. Many manufacturers make use of Polyurethane foam in mattresses, as the product meets current flammability standards. However, the material is made from hazardous chemicals that can actually make a traditional mattress highly combustible. Worse, the foam produces toxic cyanide gas when lit. This gas is disabling and deadly, meaning it can actually inhibit a victim’s ability to flee a fire.

*Clothing. About 300 emergency room visits each year are attributable to burn injuries caused by children’s sleepwear. The Flammable Fabrics Act, 15 U.S.C. 1191-1204 outlines a apparel test, SC 191-53, which requires that test samples of adult clothing take longer than one second to ignite. The test requires that after ignition the flame move along 5.5" at a rate greater than 4 seconds. Many experts have criticized the current regulations and vague and dangerous, since the test can allow clothing which is as flammable as paper to pass the test. The test for children's sleepwear, 16 CFR 1615-1616, is stricter, thanks in part to campaigning by the CPSC for tougher regulations. Even when it comes to children’s sleepwear, however, the tests are not always stringent as the manufacturers regulate themselves.

*Heaters and Fireplaces. A government Safety Alert from the CPSC has been issued about the possible hazard of secondary heaters. About 10,900 fires were caused in a recent year by heaters. The same year, 15,500 fires and 40 deaths were caused by fireplaces or chimneys. Heaters caused 100 carbon monoxide deaths the same year.

Although many people assume that their homes are safe from fire, these facts show that they are in fact not safe at all. Florida burn injuries occur each year due to clothing, heaters, and bedding products. Florida residents may wish to check these items in their homes to ensure that these products are in good shape and are recent. Consumers may wish to check to make sure that the products they are using in their home have not been recalled due to defect. Extra caution – and of course, good working fire alarms in the home – are vital in preventing tragedy.

If you or a loved one have already suffered a burn injury due to a product defect or due to an accident, it is important to contact qualified Florida attorneys at once. Many of the treatments and procedures required to rebuild the skin after a burn injury may not be covered by traditional medical insurance. Qualified Florida lawyers can ensure that you get the medical treatment you need.

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According to Rick Halpert, JD, writing for The Phoenix Society Newsletter, the answer to that question is “yes.” Burn injuries stemming from accidents, fires, workplace accidents, and other traumas can be extremely difficult to bear. Burn injuries can lead to disability, expensive rehabilitation, and even disfigurement. Dealing with the pain and with the appearance of severe burns can have serious emotional impact, according to the Burn Survivor Resource Center. Burn victims may feel isolated, angry, and can even suffer from severe depression as a result of their injuries.

Attorneys can help patients with physical and emotional recovery, according to Halpert. Attorneys can help ensure that patients get the best reconstructive and rehabilitative help possible. While many insurance companies will try to impose limits on the type and level of medical help a patient can receive, a qualified attorney can work to ensure that patients get all the help they need – even help that may be above and beyond a policy.

Attorneys can also be instrumental in helping burn survivors to recover emotionally. Qualified attorneys are sensitive and can help a victim overcome their feelings of fear, anger, and unease. More importantly, an attorney can help a victim get real answers about what happened to cause an accident. By finding who is responsible for a burn injury, an attorney can help the victim find some meaning and closure from a traumatic accident.

Since attorneys are so key in the healing process, burn injury patients may want to hire a qualified attorney as soon as possible after an injury. After all, if an attorney can help in getting the patient better medical care, the sooner the attorney is hired, the more he or she can help in rehabilitation. Hiring an attorney quickly also ensures that the attorney can gather the facts and physical evidence that may disappear over time.

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