Is Your Christmas Tree a Threat?

Christmas trees are a beautiful way to welcome in the spirit of the holidays, but be warned, they bring with them an element of danger.  You need to be diligent about how your tree is protected and placed in your home.

Christmas trees can catch on fire. The National Fire Protection Association reports that between 2007-2011 U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 230 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of six deaths, 22 injuries, and $18.3 million in direct property damage annually.

While the living room fireplace may be an ideal venue for Santa to stuff stockings, the heat from the fire, vents, and radiators dry out live trees quickly. 

At this busy time of year a Christmas tree is not the only threat to your safety.  More than 30,000 non-fatal shock accidents occur each year with an increase in statistics during the holiday as people gather together.  Heating equipment accounted for nearly 60,000 injuries in 2013.  Space heaters accounted for 19% of the total injuries, but more than two-thirds of the thermal burn injuries.

The Masters Law Firm in Charleston West Virginia hopes that you have a safe and happy Christmas season.  Remember that if you need representation due to any injury, contact The Masters Law Firm at (800) 988-4035.

Anchor And Stabilize Your Christmas Tree and Furniture

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has released a statement urging parents and caregivers to anchor and stabilize their furniture, appliances, televisions and Christmas tree, in order to put a stop to tip-over related accidents.

In a report released by the CPSC this past December, 379 people were killed and many more were injured in tip over related accidents between 2000 and 2012. Eighty-four percent of the people that were killed were younger than 9 years old. 2012 had the greatest increase in fatalities at 41 for the year. The CPSC estimates that over 43,000 people are injured each year in these types of accidents. Falling televisions accounted for 62 percent of the reported fatalities.

Most fatalities occur in the bedroom. Some reports believe that as a family transitions to a flat screen TV, their older, heavier TV is moved into the bedroom without the proper stand or anchoring device. A dresser is no place for an unanchored television and is involved in many tip-over related accidents. A TV should be placed on a stand suitable for its size and weight, in addition to being securely anchored.

In an effort to prevent tip-over related tragedies, the CPSC recommends the following safety measures in homes where children live or visit:

·         Anchor furniture to the wall or the floor.

·         Place TVs on sturdy, low bases, or anchor the furniture and the TV on top of the base, and push the TV as far back on the furniture as possible.

·         Keep remote controls, toys, and other items that might attract children off of TV stands or furniture.

·         Keep TV and/or cable cords out of reach of children.

·         Make sure freestanding kitchen ranges and stoves are installed with anti-tip brackets.

·         Supervise children in rooms where these safety tips have not been followed.

Have a safe and happy holiday from the Masters Law Firm in Charleston West Virginia.

Recalls and Security Breaches You Should Know About

The Masters Law firm will keep you abreast of product, and vehicle recalls and security breaches on a weekly basis. Consumer products are recalled daily and there isn't a lot of coverage on many of them, but it doesn't mean it can't directly affect you.


Here are a few we've shared this month so far.

http://www.newsnet5.com/news/local-news/investigations/watch-how-hackers-get-inside-ohio-womans-computer-and-steal-personal-data

http://www.wvva.com/story/27366999/2014/11/12/gm-parts-ready-to-fix-suvs-that-can-catch-fire

http://abcnews.go.com/Business

Happy Veterans Day

The Masters Law Firm sends it's warmest regards and debt of gratitude to those men and women who have, and continue serve in our United States Armed Forces.

Their loyalty and bravery are our country's great strength. Without them, we wouldn't have the very freedoms awarded to us. Let's all do our part and thank a Veteran today.

October Is Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Find out what you can do in the fight against breast cancer, here.

When making a donation, make sure it is an accredited NPO and the money is going directly to combat cancer.

Visit our Facebook page for information on safety, well being and need to know recalls.

Consumer Product Recalls

Bringing West Virginian's pertinent information regarding safety is our aim. We want you to be aware of the latest recalls on everyday consumer products. Many times, recalls go unnoticed if they don't concern automobiles or food/beverage.

The reality is, there are recalls everyday on products you may be using right now. A great way to stay informed as to what products are currently recalled. You can visit here and also "like" us on Facebook.

The OSHA Act

Injuries sustained while working on the job should always be reported and documented. Too often people work through the pain out of fear of losing their job. OSHA enacted the OSH act of 1970. To ensure worker's safety and rights. Don't compromise yours. Familiarize yourself with the OSH act of 1970, below.


www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owasrch.search_form?p_doc_type=OSHACT&p_toc_level=0

Legal reference.

Workplace Safety

Some eye opening statistics about the realities of being injured on the job. Your safety and health should be paramount to your employer. All too often people work through the pain; worsening the situation. If you or someone you know has been injured while on the job, know that there is recourse for you. You needn't suffer.



www.osha.gov/oshstats/commonstats.html

Recalls You Should Know.

Bunk beds can be fun and save a great deal of space, but they can also be very dangerous. When shopping for a bunk bed, check the manufacturers rating and check for recalls.

Often times, we don't hear about recalls if they don't involve food or transportation. Make no mistake--the dangers of inanimate, and non-edible products can be equally important to know...

www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/Recall-Alerts/2014/Lea-Industries-Recalls-Bunk-Beds-with-Bookcases/

Protecting West Virginians

If you have been injured through no fault of your own or a loved one has suffered a serious injury, our diligent and compassionate personal injury attorneys can provide informed legal counsel and aggressive representation. We care about the safety and well being of West Virginians and vow to protect you and your family.

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