Exploding whipped cream cans and dangers of defective products
A sad ending to a defective product story hit the worldwide news media last week. A fashion blogger and model died when a defective whipped cream dispenser exploded, hitting her in the chest with such force that her heart stopped.
An avoidable accident?
The manufacturer of the pressurized canisters pulled the whipped cream dispensers off the shelves a number of years ago after receiving reports of similar problems with the product. A recall of the plastic tops of the canisters — the parts that hold the nitrous oxide cartridges — was issued in 2013. After more injuries occurred in 2014, more warnings were issued.
Unfortunately, as with many recalls of defective and dangerous items, unsuspecting consumers often don’t hear about product recalls or potential dangers until it is too late. Even in the U.S., people are seriously injured or killed on an annual basis.
What can you do?
Checking for recalls on products you own or are thinking of purchasing can provide warnings of known dangers. A Google search reveals helpful sites like www.recalls.gov, which provide searchable lists of recalled items. The website lists old and new recalls for a number of categories, including:
- Food items
- Medications
- Personal care items
- Meat products
- Motor vehicles and tires
- Boats and boating supplies
- Other consumer goods
Remembering to check the products you purchased — especially those you bought years ago — is difficult as there are dozens of recalls issued each month. It can be hard to keep up with all the warnings too.
If you are injured
Sadly, recalls and warnings often give you too little information, too late. If you or someone you love was injured by a defective product, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.