A Minnesota man suffered second-degree burn injuries after a rechargeable heated insole explosion inside his boot.
A heated boot insole explosion is not a common type of injury that one would expect to have. The insole malfunctioned, overheating and combusting within the shoe. The accident forced the victim, Tyler Morris, of Trimont, Minnesota, to rush to the hospital. According to People.com, Mr. Morris said the pain “is increasing every day” and that he may need skin grafts.
Morris told NBC affiliate KARE that he bought the rechargeable insoles sold by an overseas-based company last year through Amazon for his hunting and fishing trips.
Heated Boot Insole Explosion Burn Injuries
On Dec. 12, Morris said he felt a sharp pain on his right foot while setting up a fish house on a lake. He said it felt “like a knife stabbed me in my heel.” Then he felt heat as white smoke started coming out of his boot.
Morris said he wasn’t using the insoles for warmth as they had lost their ability to heat effectively, but he was simply using them as an insole for his boot. Amazon has said they removed the product in question and are investigating the incident further.
In a Facebook post shared on Dec. 13, Morris’ wife Mikaela wrote that she rushed her husband to the emergency room after the incident. She said ER personnel cut what was left of his sock off his foot, cleaned up his foot, and contacted the burn center.
She also posted photos of Morris’ injured foot and a charred sock from the heated boot insole explosion. Doctors said he had suffered second-degree burn injuries with the possibility of some third-degree burns, his wife said.
The Morrises caution the public to research before purchasing rechargeable apparel items, especially those made overseas, or to avoid them altogether. Tyler Morris told People that he was surprised to find that a number of people had suffered similar heated boot insole explosion injuries after his injury.
How Do Rechargeable Boot Insoles Work?
Rechargeable insoles are heated insoles powered by built-in batteries to provide warmth and comfort in cold weather. These insoles typically include heating elements embedded in their structure, often made from thin, flexible materials such as carbon fiber. The heat generated is distributed evenly across the sole to warm the feet without causing discomfort.
The insoles feature rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, either integrated into the insole or connected via detachable wires. Users charge the batteries using a USB cable or a dedicated charger. A full charge typically provides heat for three to eight hours, depending on the heat setting.
Most rechargeable insoles have adjustable temperature settings controlled through buttons, a remote control, or a smartphone app. These settings allow users to customize the level of warmth according to their preferences and external conditions.
Rechargeable insoles are designed to be lightweight and durable, fitting snugly into most footwear. They are used for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, fishing, and working in cold environments.
Why Defective Rechargeable Boot Insoles Can Be Dangerous
Explosions in rechargeable insoles are often the result of thermal runaway, a dangerous chain reaction triggered by overheating within a lithium-ion battery. This can be caused by poor manufacturing quality, including substandard materials or design flaws that compromise safety.
Counterfeit or low-cost insoles are particularly prone to such issues, as they may lack proper safety certifications or rigorous testing.
Physical damage to the insole, such as punctures or compression during use, can also lead to internal short circuits, increasing the risk of an explosion. Exposure to water or excessive moisture, often encountered during outdoor activities, can further exacerbate these risks by compromising the battery’s insulation.
When a defective insole malfunctions, it can also release toxic fumes, ignite nearby materials, and cause severe burns to the feet and lower extremities. The confined space inside footwear intensifies these dangers by limiting heat dissipation and trapping harmful byproducts near the skin.
Burn Injuries Caused By Heated Boot Insole Explosion
Defective rechargeable insoles can cause various types of burn injuries, depending on the nature and severity of the malfunction. These injuries typically arise from overheating, fire, or explosions caused by faulty lithium-ion batteries. The main types of burns include:
- Thermal Burns: These occur when the insole overheats or ignites, directly exposing the skin to intense heat or flames. Depending on the temperature and duration of contact, thermal burns can range from superficial (first-degree) to deep tissue damage (third-degree).
- Chemical burns: If the battery leaks due to damage or failure, it can release harmful chemicals, which can cause chemical burns upon contact with the skin. These burns may result in redness, irritation, or more severe tissue damage.
- Electrical burns: A short circuit within the insole’s electrical components can generate electrical burns. These burns are typically localized but can cause severe damage to underlying tissues and nerves.
- Explosive burns: When a defective battery explodes, the resulting heat, flames, and flying debris can cause multiple types of burns simultaneously. Explosions may also cause secondary injuries, such as cuts or bruises.
What to Do If a Defective Rechargeable Insole Has Injured You
If you have been injured by a defective rechargeable heated boot insole, taking the right steps can help ensure your safety, support recovery, and preserve evidence for possible legal or compensation claims. Here’s what you can do to protect your rights:
Seek immediate medical attention. For minor burns, cool the area by running it under cool water for 10 to 20 minutes. For severe burns, chemical exposure, or signs of infection (redness, swelling, oozing), seek emergency medical care immediately.
Preserve evidence. Save the defective insole and any associated packaging, receipts, or documentation. Take clear photos of the injuries, the damaged insole, and any signs of malfunction, such as burns on the surface or leaking battery fluid. Note the date, time, and circumstances surrounding the incident, as these details could be important later.
Report the incident. Notify the manufacturer or retailer about the defect. This creates a record of the issue and may lead to a recall or investigation. File a report with consumer protection agencies like the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Consulting an Experienced Product Defect Lawyer
If you have suffered burn injuries, it is important that you contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who handles product defect cases and class action lawsuits involving defective products. They can help determine if you’re entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Bisnar Chase has been winning dangerous and defective product cases for more than 46 years. Our law firm has a 99% success rate, with over $900 million recovered for our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Source: https://people.com/man-sustains-second-degree-burns-heated-insole-exploded-in-boot-8762847
