Portable Heater Recall Provides Safety Reminder

Seattle, and much of the State of Washington for that matter, has experienced unseasonal cold spells over the past few weeks.  In the quest to stay warm, many of us have turned to portable heaters for respite.  But, please note that these products are not without safety concerns.

Phillips Law Firm is committed to protecting the safety of consumers.  We are also committed to upholding justice for those victims that have suffered damages from defective products.  Given these commitments, we believe it’s necessary to inform on a recent portable heater recall.  The recall also helps remind us all to use these products with extreme safety.

Vornado Heater Recall

Please be aware that the Whole Room Vortex VH110 heater from Vornado was recently recalled.  The heater has been blamed in 29 incidents of overheating and melting.  Of these 29 instances, seven have included fires.  The heaters were sold in stores and online from June 2013 through May 2014.  Further information on the recall can be found at vornado.com/recall.

Consumers should note that a product recall is a manufacturer’s request for consumers to return a product.  The recall often results after the discovery of safety issues with the product that might endanger consumers and place the manufacturer at risk of legal action.  A recall is often conducted to limit a manufacturer’s liability for corporate negligence.

Be Safe When Keeping Warm

As recently told by Consumer Reports, portable heaters account for one-third of all home-heating fires every year.  Further, portable heaters account for more than 80% of home-heating fire deaths.  Yes, staying warm is important.  But, so is your safety.

Given the inherent dangers of these devices, Consumer Reports recommends several important safety tips when using portable heaters.  Some of these helpful tips include:

• Consider replacing older heaters.  Consumer Reports recently finished testing on over two dozen space heaters.  Results show that newer heaters are indeed safer, much in part due to safety switches that automatically turn heaters off if they overheat or tip over.
• Place heaters at least three feet away from any flammable items (e.g., curtains, bedding, linens, papers, etc.).
• Always plug heaters directly into a socket.  Never use an extension cord.
• If you own a portable heater, make sure to check its safety by visiting the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.  The site will be able to provide whether your specific heater has been previously recalled due to fire safety risks.

Your Safety is Our Concern

Quite often, the safety issues and/or defects related to a product are not easily discovered so as to create the need for a product recall.  The truth of the matter is that the defective nature of a product can go unknown for years until a consumer is innocently harmed.  Further, nearly any type of product can prove to be defective and cause injury.

What does this all mean?  Be a smart and safe consumer.  Make sure you research both the product and its maker, prior to purchase, to ensure it’s safe for you and your family.  If available, read reviews of the product from other consumers to learn of any safety issues the product may have caused.  When using a product, do so for the use it was intended for.

Phillips Law Firm is in the business of providing justice and assistance to those persons who have suffered harm from a personal injury.  However, we are also focused and committed towards trying to prevent this harm from ever occurring.  We care about your safety!

In the event you have suffered harm from a defective product, please contact our passionate team of attorneys today.  While our main focus is on defective drugs, our firm has handled numerous defective product cases in the past.  Always remember that we’re here to provide you with the help and justice you deserve; and, the safety you require.