Each of your appliances, from your toaster oven to the fridge, exists to make your life more convenient, comfortable and safe. Not every appliance is completely safe all the time, however. You and other Oklahoma residents should realize that the items meant to make our lives easier can sometimes pose grave dangers to our homes and families.
In some cases, an appliance becomes dangerous after extended wear and tear. Dangerous appliances can also present hazards straight out of the factory, due to faulty design or manufacture. In most cases, an appliance becomes dangerous if you use it improperly. For example, consider space heaters. According to the DIY Network, space heaters cause four-fifths of all heating-related deaths and a significant number of fires across the country each year. Fires, burns and electrocutions often occur when consumers use them with extension cords, place them too close to combustible materials or leave them running unattended. Frayed cords and damaged electrical components can also cause space heater accidents.
This does not mean you should get rid of your space heater or refuse to use one. The same applies to any of your appliances. It is important to know how to properly operate a potentially dangerous appliance. However, in some cases, an accident could occur that was not your fault. When you get your space heater out of storage this winter or buy a new one, you may also check the Consumer Products Safety Commission’s web page or do an Internet search to see if there have been recent injuries or recalls regarding the make and model of your appliance. It can save lives if you are cautious and informed. This information is not meant to replace the advice of a lawyer.