A Brighton Beach, New York residential property is investigating what caused a shower in one of the units to emit scalding hot water, reports News 12 Brooklyn. On December 12, Stephen Christopher, a three-year tenant of the building, suffered second-degree burns when his shower suddenly released the hot water.
Christopher rushed to the hospital where emergency room staff treated him for second-degree burns. Doctors estimate that the water temperature was about 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Department of Buildings code states a building’s tap water cannot exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Christopher recorded a video of his water seemingly fine one second and then steaming hot the next. The property representative says a third-party vendor’s heat timer system regulates the building’s water.
Protect Your Family from Scalding Water Burns
Scald burns are a common burn people suffer at home. Children are common victims of scalds. Parents can take precautions to prevent these burns or reduce their child’s risk, such as always testing water before bathing a child and preventing children from accessing temperature knobs during bath time.
If you have access to your water heater’s temperature control, set it appropriately. While building codes may specify that water heaters not exceed 140 degrees F, some experts recommend setting the water heater to 120-125 degrees F to prevent scalds. If you notice your water is hotter than it should be, inform your landlord, property manager, or call a water heater repair service to check it out.
Accidental Scald Burns Could Qualify You for Compensation
Those scalded by a public water source, malfunctioning water heater, or during employment might be entitled to damages. Our lawyer referral specialists can connect you to a burn injury lawyer who can help. Call 844-549-8774.
