Waking up at an early hour is unpleasant for most people, so anything to make mornings less pleasant is certainly unwelcome. For many in Montana, coffee is the solution for grogginess. Unfortunately, one person received burn injuries as the result of a faulty coffee maker. The defective appliance is manufactured by Tassimo and is currently under recall for the danger it poses to users.

A 10-year-old girl was using her family’s Tassimo single-cup coffee maker when scorching liquid and coffee grounds burst from the machine, inflicting second-degree burns that covered her face and neck. The burns have required skin grafting, which has forced the girl to stay out of school for several weeks due to her skin’s sensitivity. In addition to the terrible injuries, the girl is experiencing a significant anxiety as a result of the accident.

This is not an isolated incident. Nearly 150 incidents have been reported in relation to the coffee maker, including 37cases that resulted in burn injuries. Over 1.7 million appliances have been recalled by the company.

Product manufacturers must make sure that their products work as they are supposed to and will keep their users safe. When dealing with a product that is potentially dangerous, such as a coffee maker, it is especially important that the product functions properly. Because the company did not verify the overall safety of its product, multiple people are dealing with life-changing injuries.

We are entitled to expect that the products we purchase will not be harmful when used properly. Those hurt by defective products might be able to seek compensation for the damage and suffering incurred as a result. As consumers, we should do what we can to ensure manufacturers fulfill their promise of safety to their customers.

Source: Star Tribune, “Minn. girl endured pain, nightmares, isolation after burns from recalled coffee brewer,” Paul Walsh, Feb. 9, 2012