According to the US Fire Administration (Division of Homeland Security), burns are responsible for 50% of all injuries that require medical attention. 80% of fires in the US are in homes. That is why 42 states have laws requiring smoke detectors in all new and existing dwellings.
An individual with serious burns may face:
- multiple surgeries
- lengthy hospital in-patient care
- hospital readmissions
- long periods of rehabilitation
- psychological counseling
- permanent disabilities (mobility and altered self image)
- cosmetic deformities
Burns can also cause scarring, adult respiratory distress, sepsis (a bacterial infection in the tissues or blood), or death.
According to the American Burn Association, children 4 and under are most susceptible to fire and burn injuries and death, accounting for 70% of fire-related fatalities. There are many steps you can take to reduce the chances of fire and fire-related injuries in your home. Please go to the National Fire Protection Association’s website (www.nfpa.org) for more information.
The cause of fires in the home can be the result of defective or improperly maintained products. If a property owner does not properly maintain the premises, this also can result in fire hazards and safety issues. If you have suffered an injury or property damage that you feel was the result of a defective productive or an improperly maintained property, you may be entitled in compensation.
Products most associated with fires:
- wood and coal burning stoves and fireplaces
- kerosene heaters
- gas-fired space heaters
- portable electric heaters
- cooking equipment
- cigarette lighters and matches
- upholstered furniture
- mattresses and bedding
- clothing
- flammable liquids
Fires can cause extensive property loss, and painful, disfiguring injuries. If a manufacturer creates a defective product or a property owner is negligent in maintaining the premises in a way that results in a fire, that manufacturer or property owner can be held responsible.
The expenses associated with burn injuries are very significant.
Rehabilitation, increased insurance premiums, out of pocket expenses, loss of productivity and loss of wages all contribute to the long-term expenses associated with burn injuries.
There are many different types of burns: flame burns, flash burns, contact burns, scalds, steam burns, electrical burns, and chemical burns. They all can have different degrees of severity. For more information on burns, go to the American Burn Associations website (www.ameriburn.org).
