Consumer Alert: Empower Brands Recalls PowerXL Stuffed Wafflizer Waffle Makers Due to Burn Hazard
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently announced a recall of the PowerXL Stuffed Wafflizer Waffle Makers. This recall, announced by Empower Brands, is due to the risk of burns posed by the product. Our team at the Law Offices of Jason Turchin is dedicated to keeping our community informed and safe, so we've compiled this consumer alert to provide crucial details about this recall and steps to follow if you own this product. Our product liability attorneys are also handling burn injury claims involving the Wafflizer waffle maker.
About the Wafflizer Recall
According to the CPSC, Empower Brands initiated the recall of approximately 456,000 units of PowerXL Stuffed Wafflizer Waffle Makers due to a burn hazard. The waffle maker can open unexpectedly when in use, leading to burns from hot steam or the hot waffle maker surfaces.
This product was sold at Walmart, Kohls, Big Lots, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Best Buy, The Home Depot, Target, Sam’s Club and other home goods stores nationwide and online at www.QVC.com, www.walmart.com, www.kohls.com and other websites from July 2021 through October 2022. The recalled waffle makers are PowerXL Model ESWM02 (five inch) and Model ESWM03 (seven inch) Stuffed Wafflizer waffle makers.
Incidents and Injuries from Wafflizer
The CPSC reports that Empower Brands has received at least 34 reports of burns caused by the waffle maker. Burn injuries, such as those potentially caused by the PowerXL Stuffed Wafflizer Waffle Maker, can range from minor to severe. They are typically classified into three degrees, each representing a different level of damage to the skin:
First-Degree Burns: These are the least severe type of burn injuries and affect the epidermis or the outer layer of the skin. Symptoms may include redness, minor inflammation (swelling), and pain. An example of a first-degree burn is a mild sunburn. Although painful, they typically don't often cause long-term tissue damage.
Second-Degree Burns: These burns are more severe and extend to the second layer of the skin, known as the dermis. Symptoms of second-degree burns include blisters, severe redness, and swelling. The skin may also look glossy from leaking bodily fluids. Second-degree burns can result in scarring and require medical attention to prevent infection and other complications.
Third-Degree Burns: These are the most severe type of burns and involve all layers of the skin, potentially extending into the underlying fat, muscles, or bones. The affected area may appear black, brown, white, or yellow and can look leathery. These burns can cause significant nerve damage. However, the area surrounding the burn can be incredibly painful. Third-degree burns are generally a medical emergency and require immediate professional medical care. They often require skin grafting and can cause long-term complications, including scarring and limited mobility.
The extent of a burn from a product like a malfunctioning waffle maker would depend on a variety of factors, including the temperature of the device or batter, the length of exposure to the heat, and the individual's reaction to the incident. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one sustains a burn, especially if it's a second or third-degree burn.
Types of Product Liability Claims Against Wafflizer
Product liability can generally be categorized into three distinct types:
Manufacturing Defects: This category refers to flaws that occur during the process of manufacturing or assembling a product. Even if a product is perfectly designed, a manufacturing defect can make it dangerous and harmful to users.
Design Defects: These defects are inherent in the product from the start, even before manufacturing begins. If a product is poorly designed, it can lead to injury, even when used as intended. A design defect usually affects the entire line of a product, not just one single item.
Marketing Defects (also known as failure to warn): These defects occur when companies do not provide adequate instructions for safe use or fail to warn consumers about potential hazards associated with the product. If a product lacks necessary safety warnings or instructions, the company may be held liable for injuries that occur.
In the case of the Empower Brands' PowerXL Stuffed Wafflizer Waffle Makers, the issue may involve these various defects.
How a Product Liability Lawyer Can Help
As a consumer, it is reasonable to trust that the products you buy are safe for use. However, when a product is found to be dangerous and causes harm, you might be eligible for compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages associated with the product's defect.
Navigating a product liability claim can be complex. These cases often require a thorough understanding of both legal and technical issues. In situations such as these, an experienced product liability lawyer can be an invaluable asset. They can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, consult with experts, and negotiate or litigate on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve.
At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we have a long history of advocating for consumers harmed by defective products. We understand the intricacies of product liability law, and our team is ready to fight to seek justice for our clients. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn or any other type of injury due to the PowerXL Stuffed Wafflizer Waffle Maker or any other defective product, do not hesitate to contact us at 800-337-7755 or Chat with us today for a free consultation.
