What are the biggest dangers of the holidays? If you ask most people, they will point to the increase in fatal car accidents caused by distracted driving and drunk driving. While these accidents do spike around the holidays, there is one type of injury almost no one thinks of, yet they happen very commonly: burn injuries.
Keep reading to get the facts about these types of injuries. If you have suffered an injury due to someone else acting negligently, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
There Are More than 1,800 Fires on Thanksgiving Alone
Alcohol and distraction are not only common causes of accidents, they are also common causes of burn injuries. They can be responsible for cooking fires. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has found that there are an average of 1,800 cooking fires on Thanksgiving – which is four times the number on an average day. Further consider that cooking fires are one of the most common causes of house fire, and it is easy to see that these accidents should be actively prevented.
Most Cooking Fires Result from Unattended Ovens or Stoves
The most common reason for an oven or stove fire is the oven or stove is left unattended. You might have something low on a simmer and assume that it is fine, only to have it dry out and catch fire. You might accidentally leave the oven on, or set it to preheat and then leave the house. If this type of fire occurs while you are out of the house, the chances of losing your entire home are much higher.
Hot Grease Also Causes Burn Injuries
A fire is not always necessary for a burn injury. Hot grease can also spill on a person’s skin and cause serious burns. In fact, most burns occur on the hands and arms. For this reason, it is wise to always use oven mitts if you are working with anything hot, and to wear well-fitted clothing. Loose clothing can catch fire or could cause something to spill.
Use Turkey Fryers Outside
If you are planning to use a turkey fryer, make sure you are doing so outside and away from your home. Follow the instructions on the fryer. Remember to never attempt frying a frozen turkey as the water content can cause a fire. If you do have a fryer fire, do not use water to put it out as this will just make it worse. Instead, use baking soda or smother it another way.
If you or your child is injured in a burn accident due to someone else acting negligently, you might have grounds to sue the at-fault party. If it is a friend or family member, remember that you are actually suing their insurance company – not them directly. To find out if you likely have a case, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
