Risks of Burn Injuries Increase During Fall and Winter Holidays

During the fall and winter holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year, the risk of fires and burns increases due to the heavier use of cooking equipment, decorations and heating devices. Being alert to fire hazards and taking steps to prevent accidents can keep your holiday season safe. You should also be aware of the remedial actions to take if a burn accident occurs.

The following are the most common causes of fall and winter holiday fires and burns:

• Oven and stove fires — More kitchen fires occur on Thanksgiving than on any other day in the year, according to federal government statistics. Grease, food particles or improperly placed items can ignite, causing a fire. Avoid leaving combustibles, such as dish towels or paper, near stovetops. Ensure that the oven is clean before use. Also, never leave the oven unattended while it's on, especially when roasting a turkey or other large dishes. If a fire starts in the oven, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to smother the flames. 

• Turkey fryer accidents — Deep frying is a popular method for cooking a turkey quickly while retaining moistness, but it presents significant risks. These appliances require a large amount of hot oil, which is combustible. If the fryer is overfilled, hot oil can spurt out, causing a fire. These units are prone to tipping over, also causing spillage of hot oil. If the turkey is not adequately thawed, the steam build-up can cause the fryer to explode. To prevent accidents, use a turkey fryer outdoors, away from flammable structures. Never leave the fryer unattended and always monitor the oil temperature closely. If the oil begins to smoke, turn off the heat immediately.

• Candle fires — Candles are popular during the fall and winter holidays for ambiance and decoration. However, unattended candles can easily cause fires. Keep candles in plain view on stable, heat-resistant surfaces away from anything flammable. Blow them out when leaving the room or going to sleep. 

• Space heater fires — Space heaters can cause fires if placed too close to furniture, bedding, curtains or other combustibles. Always place space heaters on a flat, non-flammable surface to avoid them tipping over. Be sure that they have an automatic shutoff. Never leave them running when you’re not home. Unplug them when not in use.

• Electrical fires — Holiday decorations often require increased use of electrical outlets and extension cords. Only use lights and decorations that have been tested for safety. LED lights are safer because they produce far less heat than incandescent ones. Inspect strings of lights for frayed wires and broken bulbs before use. Do not connect multiple strands in sequence, which can overload fuses. 

If a burn was caused by a faulty appliance, cooking equipment or unsafe practices, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering and other damages. A personal injury attorney experienced in burn cases can help you understand your legal options and can guide you through the process of pursuing a claim.

Rich & Rich, P.C. represents victims of burn injuries throughout the New York metropolitan area. We have offices in midtown Manhattan office and Roslyn Heights, N.Y. Please call 917-746-3358 or contact us online for a free consultation.