Electrical Fires

What Is An Electrical Burn?

Electrical burns are usually caused at either the home or while at work. They are the result of an electrical current passing through your body by means of any cord, outlet, wire, or appliance. Resulting injuries from such an occurrence can cause severe burning of your skin as well as extreme internal injuries, including heart attack. In instances of internal injuries, it may be difficult to immediately establish the extent of injury. This is because the external burns are visible by virtue of the electrical current entry/exit points, which is typically entered through one's hand.

Electrical Fire/Burn Causes

According to the United States Fire Administration, electrical fires are responsible for the deaths of an average of 500 Americans every year, as well as 2,300 injuries. While some electrical fires are the result of electrical system failures and faulty appliances, a majority are caused by misuse and less than adequate maintenance of electrical appliances, flawed wiring, and overburdened circuits. Winter months are known to be the most dangerous for electrical fires due to the fact that there are increased indoor activities, and thus increased heating, lighting, and utilizing of appliances.

The most common products used in the home involved in electrical fires include electric stoves and ovens, hair dryers, electrical kitchen appliances, heating devices, televisions, and radios. A good deal of electrical fires can be avoided. Certain safety precautions should always be adhered to.

• Make a habit of checking your wiring throughout your home.
• Replace frayed or damaged wires.
• Keep all electrical and plugged in appliances away from wet surfaces.
• Your children should be kept clear of such items as space heaters and irons.
• Utensils (knives, forks, spoons, etc.) should NEVER be stuck into electrical appliances.
• Electrical cords are never to be chewed on, or placed in one's mouth.
• Outlets are to be utilized for the sole purpose of electrical devices and nothing else.

Legal Action

If you or a loved one have been involved in an electrical fire you have legal rights that may entitle you to compensation from negligent employers, manufacturers or others responsible for causing the burn injury. Depending on the unique circumstances of each incident, victims and their families may be eligible to collect restitution for their losses, such as medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages.