The Hidden Dangers of Ethanol Fire Pits, Outdoor Grills, and Kitchen Appliances

Ethanol-fueled fire pits, gas- and charcoal-powered outdoor grills, slow cookers, and other modern cooking and heating products are marketed as safe, stylish, and convenient. But behind the sleek designs and glowing flames lie real risks: Across the country, a growing number of people have suffered severe burns, explosions, and accidents caused by defective design, inadequate warnings, or misuse of these products.

Read on to explore the risks, types of injuries, treatments, and legal steps you can take to protect your rights if you or a loved one faces this type of accident.

Common Risks of Ethanol-Fueled and Heat-Producing Products

Ethanol Fire Pits & Burners

• Ethanol is a highly flammable substance that burns with a nearly invisible flame. Many users don’t realize a pit is still lit, leading to unexpected explosions when more fuel is added.
• Spilled fuel can ignite instantly, spreading flames rapidly without warning.

Outdoor Grills

• Gas leaks, defective regulators, or clogged burners can cause dangerous flare-ups and explosions.
• Propane tanks and connections often pose risks if not properly maintained.

Indoor Cooking Appliances: Slow Cookers, Crock Pots, Pressure Cookers, and More

• Faulty lids, seals, or pressure-release valves may cause scalding liquid and steam to explode outward.
• Poor electrical wiring or overheating can also create fire hazards.

Types of Injuries Caused by Heat-Producing Products

Victims of these incidents can experience a wide array of physical and psychological impairments that include:

• First-, Second-, and Third-Degree Burns — Injuries can range from minor skin damage to life-altering injuries requiring surgeries and skin grafts.
• Scalding and Steam Injuries — These are most common with crock pots and pressure cookers.
• Inhalation Injuries — Breathing in smoke or superheated vapor can cause significant damage to a person’s respiratory system.
• Scarring and Disfigurement — These injuries are often accompanied by long-term emotional and physical impact.
• Psychological Trauma — Many survivors of such accidents suffer anxiety or Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Common Medical Treatments for Burn Injuries

After sustaining an injury from an ethanol fire pit, outdoor grill, or kitchen appliance, individuals can expect to receive the following types of common treatments:

• Emergency Care — Cooling burns, oxygen therapy, and stabilization
• Specialized Burn Unit Treatment — Wound cleaning, pain management, and infection control
• Surgical Procedures — Skin grafting, reconstructive surgery, or scar reduction procedures
• Rehabilitation and Therapy — Physical therapy for mobility and counseling for emotional recovery

Contact Cohen, Placitella & Roth to Explore Your Legal Options

While products like ethanol-fueled fire pits, outdoor grills, and kitchen appliances are marketed for convenience and enjoyment, they can cause devastating harm when something goes wrong. Awareness, caution, and legal guidance are essential for protecting yourself and your family.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective or dangerous product, you don’t have to face it alone. Our experienced personal injury attorney team at Cohen, Placitella & Roth can help investigate what happened, hold manufacturers accountable, and fight for the compensation you deserve.