Empower Brands Announces Major Recall Expansion for BLACK+DECKER® Garment Steamers Due to Burn Hazard

Empower Brands, in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), has announced a significant recall expansion for the BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers. This recall affects approximately 2 million units, including 518,500 units previously recalled in November 2022, due to a burn hazard posed by the steamers.

Recall Details

Product Involved: The recall encompasses all BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers, including those repaired in the previous recall. These steamers come in various colors and feature the BLACK+DECKER brand at the base. They measure about 11 inches in height and 6 inches in width, with a large handle for easy use. You can find the model numbers and UPC codes on the bottom of the steamer and its packaging.

Hazard: Reports show that these steamers can expel, spray, or leak hot water during use, creating a burn hazard for consumers.

Remedy: Consumers are urged to immediately cease using the recalled garment steamers and contact Empower Brands for a full refund. This remedy update follows continued reports of burn injuries, including those involving units repaired or replaced during the previous recall.

Consumer Response

Owners of the recalled BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers should contact Empower Brands directly to facilitate the refund process.

Incident Reports and Injuries

Since the initial recall in November 2022, there have been 317 alleged reports of hot water expelling from the steamers, including 82 reports of burn injuries, of which seven were second-degree burns. Notably, 94 of these alleged incidents involved units that were repaired or featured the updated design from the original recall, including 19 reports of burn injuries.

Product Availability

The recalled garment steamers were available for purchase from June 2021 through February 2024 at several retailers, including Walmart, Target, Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, and other nationwide stores, as well as online platforms. The products were sold at prices ranging between $14 and $23.

Importer Information

The recalled BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers are imported by Spectrum Brands Inc., based in Middleton, Wisconsin, through its subsidiary Empower Brands LLC and were manufactured in China.

Recall Number

This recall is registered under recall number 24-181.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a burn injury related to the recalled BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers, it’s important to understand your rights and potential legal options. At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we’re committed to assisting individuals navigate the complexities of product liability claims. Contact us today at 954-515-5000 or engage with our live chat for comprehensive legal support. Our experienced team is here to help you secure the compensation you deserve for any injuries sustained due to this recalled product.

Compensation for Those Injured by the Recalled Steamer

Individuals who have suffered injuries due to the BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamer face not only physical pain but also potential financial burdens from medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses. Understanding the compensation available is crucial for those affected.

Types of Compensation Available

• Medical Expenses: Victims can seek compensation for all medical treatments related to the burn injuries caused by the defective steamer. This includes hospital stays, medications, specialized treatments, and any future medical care required.
• Lost Wages: If the injury has resulted in time away from work, compensation for lost wages can be claimed. This also encompasses loss of earning capacity if the injury affects the victim’s ability to work in the future.
• Pain and Suffering: Injuries often bring physical pain and emotional distress. Victims are entitled to seek compensation for these non-economic damages.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the manufacturer’s negligence is found to be egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Steps to Seek Compensation

1. Document the Injury and Treatment: Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, including dates, types of treatment, and costs. Documenting the injury through photos and keeping a diary of how it affects your daily life can also be helpful.
2. Report the Injury: Notify the manufacturer, in this case, Empower Brands, about the injury. This is a critical step before pursuing further legal action.
3. Consult with a Product Liability Lawyer: An experienced lawyer can provide guidance on your case, help gather necessary evidence, and represent you in negotiations or court.

Understanding Product Liability

Product liability refers to the legal obligation of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to ensure that their products are safe for consumers. When products like the BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamer cause harm due to defects, those affected have the right to seek compensation through product liability claims.

Types of Product Defects

• Design Defects: Flaws in the product’s design that make it inherently dangerous, even if manufactured correctly.
• Manufacturing Defects: Issues that arise during the manufacturing process, resulting in a product that deviates from its intended design.
• Failure to Warn: The absence of adequate instructions or warnings about the product’s use, which could prevent injury.

Pursuing a Product Liability Claim

A successful product liability claim must often demonstrate that the product was defective and that this defect directly caused the injury. Claimants must also typically prove that they were using the product as intended at the time of the injury. Product liability claims can be complex, involving in-depth investigations and negotiations with well-resourced manufacturers and their insurers.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Navigating a product liability claim often requires an understanding of complex legal principles and the ability to go up against large corporations. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin have extensive experience in product liability law, providing victims with the experience needed to build a strong case and pursue the maximum compensation available.

Call to Action

If the BLACK+DECKER Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamer—or any defective product—injured you, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin are here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 954-515-5000 or through our live chat for a consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to provide you with the support and representation you need to navigate your product liability claim.