All articles tagged with #fire hazards
California has implemented a new 1.5% fee on products with nonremovable batteries, such as PlayStations and power tools, to fund proper recycling and reduce fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, which are increasingly prevalent and pose safety risks at waste facilities and in the environment.
Costco has recalled nearly a dozen products, including electronics, appliances, tires, and food items, due to safety hazards such as fire risks, mold, contamination, and injury risks, urging consumers to stop using affected products and seek replacements or refunds.
Strong winds across the Front Range and Denver metro area caused multiple fires due to downed power lines, with wind gusts above 90 mph reported in several counties. The winds led to property damage, travel hazards, power outages, and fires, with incidents of electrical hazards and small wildfires being reported. Fire weather warnings are in effect as wind gusts continue to reach 50 to 80 mph with low humidity.
Dynabook Americas is recalling 15.5 million Toshiba laptop AC adapters due to burn and fire hazards, in consultation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which works to protect the public from unreasonable risks associated with consumer products. Federal law prohibits the sale of products subject to a CPSC-ordered recall, and individuals can report dangerous products or injuries on www.SaferProducts.gov.
Approximately 30,000 Berkshire Blanket Heated Throws and Blankets, branded as L.L. Bean, have been recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission due to reports of overheating, melting, and fire hazards. The recall serves as a warning for consumers to check the safety and quality of their electric blankets and throws. No injuries have been reported, and consumers are advised to discontinue use and contact Berkshire Blanket & Home Co. for a full refund.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a warning about the dangers of deep frying turkeys for Thanksgiving, as the popularity of this cooking method grows. The commission shared videos showing the potential hazards, including huge fires being ignited seconds after the turkey is dropped into the oil. Factors such as overfilling the fryers and not using thermostat controls contribute to the rapid spread of fires. The commission advises using turkey fryers outdoors on flat surfaces, away from structures, and having the correct air extinguisher nearby in case of a fire.
State investigators had identified fire and safety hazards at a leased storage space under a Los Angeles freeway before it was set ablaze in an arson fire. The fire, fueled by flammable materials stored in violation of the company's lease, closed a section of Interstate 10 for days. Documents released by the California Department of Transportation revealed repeated violations and problematic conditions at the site, which had been leased since 2008. The state is now reassessing the practice of leasing land under roads. Authorities are seeking the public's help to identify a person of interest in the arson case.
The City's Department of Buildings provides a checklist for winterizing homes, including sealing windows and doors, insulating attics, hiring qualified professionals for boiler and chimney inspections, maintaining heating systems, cleaning chimneys, insulating water meters and pipes, thawing frozen pipes carefully, preventing roof leaks, checking and changing batteries of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and avoiding fire hazards.
While candles can create a cozy ambiance, healthcare providers say that the negative impact on health is often overhyped. The biggest concern is the risk of starting a fire, which can lead to burns or even death. Some candles may contain lead wicks or carcinogenic dyes, and certain individuals may be allergic to fragrances emitted from candles. Additionally, combining aerosolized sprays or nail polish remover with candles can be dangerous. Burn injuries can range from first-degree burns to third-degree burns, which often require surgery and can have long-term consequences. LED candles and candles within enclosures are safer alternatives. In the event of a fire, it is important to have working smoke detectors, a fire extinguisher, and to prioritize personal safety.
Over 1.5 million dehumidifiers sold under popular brand names like GE and Kenmore have been recalled due to fire and burn hazards. The dehumidifiers, manufactured by Gree Electric Appliances, have been linked to 23 fires, 688 incidents of overheating, and $168,000 in property damage. The affected models were sold between January 2011 and February 2014 and were available at various retailers. Consumers are advised to stop using the recalled units, unplug them, and follow the instructions on the manufacturer's website for a refund.