Many people may not be aware of it, but their homes are possible sources of defective products. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were more than 43,000 people who sustained defective product injuries and treated in emergency departments between 2009 and 2011. Of these, most (25,400) were children under 18 years of age.
From furniture and electronics to appliances and baby toys, recalls can affect virtually product. These everyday products potentially can be a source of injury if proper precautions are not taken. Consider the following tips to avoid injuries and stay safe.
Faulty Product Safety Tips
Consumers can prevent defective product injuries by doing the following:
- Be wary of any changes in how the product is working. Even the smallest issue can lead to a bigger problem.
- Inspect power cords. Frayed wires can cause electrocution.
- Keep dryer vents clear. Blockages can cause the dryer to overheat.
- Inspect toys for broken parts. Small parts are a choking hazard for young children.
- Check the baby’s crib for any unsafe features. Older cribs may have been manufactured before current industry standards were put in place.
- Clean up grease spills and buildup promptly. Allowing grease and oils to build up around ovens, ranges and other appliances can cause fires.
- Regularly inspect appliances and other products for defects that can cause injuries. Sharp edges and jagged areas can lead to injury, especially in appliances.
- Register appliances, electronics and other products in order to stay up-to-date on product recalls or safety issues. Consumers can go online to recalls.gov and check the recall status on any product they own.
Contact an Injury Attorney in New York
Even when safety precautions are taken, defective product injuries can still happen. Get legal help from Gacovino Lake & Associates. A product liability attorney will review each client’s case and determine their rights to compensation. Contact us for a free consultation: (800) 246-4878.
