How Do Burn Injuries Occur During the Winter Months?

As winter sets in, we brighten our homes with festive decorations, use heaters to stay warm, and enjoy holiday traditions like cooking and fireworks. However, these activities can increase the risk of burn injuries. While accidents happen, in some cases burn injuries result from negligence, such as faulty products or unsafe conditions. 

In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of burn injuries during winter, practical tips to prevent them, and what to do if someone else’s negligence—such as a defective product or unsafe conditions—causes harm. Burn injuries are among the most painful and life-altering injuries, often requiring extensive and expensive medical treatment at burn centers, rehabilitation, and long-term care. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury, understanding your legal options is essential to protect your rights and recover the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Winter Burn Injuries

Winter months bring unique risks that can lead to serious burn injuries. Understanding these risks and the common causes of burns is the first step toward staying safe and protecting your family this season. 

1. Cooking Accidents

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires, with incidents spiking during the holidays. About 47 percent of home fires are caused by cooking. Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day see a sharp rise in kitchen fires, often caused by unattended cooking or improper handling of hot cookware. Experts suggest staying in the kitchen while cooking, especially while cooking on the stovetop. Also, turn pots and pan handles to face the back of the stove to prevent accidental spills, and keep flammable items, like dish towels, away from open flames or burners.

2. Holiday Decorations and Electrical Equipment

Festive holiday decorations and lighting can pose serious fire risks if not handled properly. Faulty or damaged lights and overloaded electrical outlets are common culprits. Choose decorations that are flame-retardant and resistant. When hanging lights on your home’s exterior or interior, determine whether the lights are rated for inside or outside use and ensure the lights are in good working order. 

To safely decorate a live Christmas tree and lessen the risk of a fire, be sure to select a tree that has fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Add water to your tree each day to ensure it does not dry out and become a burn risk and fire hazard. When placing the tree in your home, select a location that is at least three feet away from heat sources – like fireplaces, heat vents, or radiators. When decorating the tree with lights, ensure the strands of lights are in good working order. If there are worn spots, loose bulb connections, or broken cords, replace the strand of lights. When leaving your home or going to bed, turn off your tree’s lights.

3. Heating Equipment

Space heaters, fireplaces, and other heating devices are essential during winter but can be dangerous if misused. Use space heaters with automatic shut-off features to prevent fires if they tip over. Maintain a clear area around heaters, free of flammable items like curtains or bedding. And, don’t forget to test your smoke alarms. Fire experts suggest changing the battery of your smoke alarm yearly. 

4. Fireworks and Candles

Fireworks and candles can add excitement and warmth to celebrations, but they also lead to numerous burn injuries during winter holidays. Opt for flameless, battery-operated candles to reduce fire risks. If using traditional candles, place them in sturdy holders away from flammable materials and out of reach of children and pets. Always handle fireworks cautiously and follow all safety guidelines.

Burn Injuries and Negligence

Burns caused by defective products, electrical accidents, or other forms of negligence can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If you’ve suffered a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, such as a malfunctioning heater or faulty holiday lights, you may have grounds for a burn injury lawsuit.

Burn treatments are expensive, often involving surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term care. Coupled with lost wages and emotional trauma, the financial burden can be overwhelming. An experienced personal injury attorney with expertise in burn injury cases can help you:

• Recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
• Hold negligent parties accountable, including manufacturers of defective products.
• Advocate for changes to prevent future injuries.

At Herman, Katz, Gisleson & Cain, we understand the devastating impact of burn injuries. Our experienced Louisiana personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping clients recover compensation for damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and permanent disability.

If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury due to negligence, contact us for a free, no-obligation case review. Call 504-581-4892 or fill out our online contact form to learn more about your legal options. Don’t face the challenges of recovery alone. Let us help you fight for justice and the compensation you deserve.