Burn injuries in the home are an alarmingly common occurrence all over the United States. According to recent reports, there are approximately 116,000 children injured due to burn or fire-related incidents every year. As a result of this potential danger, parents should take special precaution to “burn-proof” their homes to help keep their children safe at all times.
Although these injuries are sometimes the result of accidents, other times the injury may be caused by another party’s negligent behavior. For example, if your child is playing with a battery-operated toy and it overheats causing a burn injury, the toy manufacturer may be liable for your child’s injuries. Because each case has its own specific details and circumstances, it is important to discuss your case with an experienced attorney. To learn if you have grounds for a legal claim, contact an Indianapolis personal injury attorney from Hankey Marks & Crider, today by calling 317-634-8565.
Reducing the Risk of Burn Injuries
In order to help ensure your home is safe for you and your children, keep the following burn safety tips in mind:
- Set your hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is any higher, you and your loved ones may be at risk for scald burns.
- Never place a hot plate or container at the edge of a table. On the same note, turn all handles of hot pots and pans away from you, not facing outwards.
- Never pick up anything hot while holding a baby or toddler.
- Keep electrical cords and flammable objects out of reach of children, especially in bathrooms.
- Make sure chemicals and hazardous cleaning agents are kept in a locked cabinet.
- Never leave a hot object such as an iron or stove top unattended.
- Make sure your smoke detector is in working order and replace the batteries on a regular basis.
By adhering to the above recommendations, you can help reduce the risk of burn and fire-related injuries in the home. However, when accidents to do happen because of someone else’s reckless behavior, know that you have rights under the law to seek financial compensation to help pay for those injuries.
Contact Us
To learn more about your legal rights following a burn injury, contact the Indianapolis personal injury lawyers of Hankey Marks & Crider, today at (317) 634-8565.