Warning about e-cigarettes exploding: The explosions generally result when the e-cigs get overcharged. The quality (more expensive) model chargers are digital and incorporate automatic kill switches to avoid overcharging. Conversely the cheaper models will just keep charging the battery; their solution is to supply very detailed directions, e.g. never charge for more than 2 hours…

The chair can tip over when leaning back. Source: Staples Recalls Back in Motion Office Chairs Due to Fall Hazard

Lawsuits are good for America.  This article from Harper’s Magazine is a little long, but worth the read. https://harpers.org/archive/2016/04/suing-for-justice/

Don’t bet your child’s life on a bad skull bucket.  The helmet’s plastic shell can crack where the straps attach, causing the helmet to shift and move on the wearer’s head.  Get your refund and a new helmet lickety-split. Source: Rollerblade USA Recalls Helmets Due to Head Injury Hazard

Twenty-five people are suing a hospital in Springfield, Massachusetts after the hospital used unsterilized equipment.  Baystate Noble Hospital failed to properly sanitize equipment used for colonoscopies in 2012 and 2013.  At least 293 patients were affected, and Baystate Noble is testing each of those patients who choose to be tested.  At this point, at least…

Source: IKEA Recalls Children’s Bat Cape Costumes Due to Strangulation Hazard

The estate and family of a mentally ill Oregon man have filed suit against the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for the man’s death in prison.  Bradley Thomas, 55, was found dead of significant dehydration in his cell two weeks after being booked on misdemeanor allegations.  The autopsy classified the death as a “sudden death in…

Another terrifying bit of life or death news from Black Diamond.  A nylon runner with a tape splice (two cut ends joined by masking tape) will fail in normal use. To give them some credit, this is the second equipment recall they announced today — BEFORE there have been any injuries or deaths known to…

Friends, if you bet your life on this equipment you need to stop right now and get the free replacements.The carabiner can unexpectedly open and allow the rope to become detached, posing a risk of injury or death to climbers from a fall. Source: Black Diamond Recalls to Inspect Carabiners Due to Fall Hazard

The family of Robert Beck, an 18 year-old quadriplegic former football player, has filed suit in Montana against Beck’s coach, athletic trainer, and school district.  Beck suffered an on-field concussion in September of 2014, and his doctors ordered that he stay off the field.  The lawsuit claims that Beck’s coach and trainer ignored the doctor’s…