A shocking safety alert has been issued nationwide after multiple reports of electric pressure cookers suddenly exploding during use, causing severe burns and injuries. Authorities have confirmed at least eight serious incidents linked to malfunctioning units — sparking widespread concern among consumers who rely on these popular kitchen appliances.
The incidents, which span several states, involve various models of electric pressure cookers reportedly malfunctioning when users attempted to release steam or open the lid after cooking. In several cases, scalding hot contents — including soups, sauces, and oils — burst out with explosive force, leaving victims with second- and third-degree burns to their faces, arms, and hands.
Consumer safety investigators have launched an urgent probe into what’s being called “a potential design flaw” that may allow pressure to build even after the device indicates it’s safe to open. “People trust these products to be convenient and safe,” said a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) spokesperson. “But in these cases, that trust was broken — and people were seriously hurt.”
One victim, a mother from Texas, described her terrifying experience: “I thought the timer had gone off and it was safe. The moment I turned the lid, it exploded. My entire arm was burned in seconds. I still can’t believe it happened in my own kitchen.”
Photos of the aftermath show kitchen ceilings splattered with food and melted plastic scattered across countertops. Fire departments and hospitals have both issued warnings urging users to exercise extreme caution when operating pressure cookers until further testing is complete.
Experts say the issue appears to involve faulty pressure-release valves or seals that fail under high heat. “Even a small defect can create an enormous amount of pressure buildup,” explained a mechanical safety engineer. “When that energy releases suddenly, it’s like a mini explosion.”
The affected brands have not yet been officially recalled, but consumer watchdogs are calling for immediate action. Legal experts have also begun preparing potential lawsuits on behalf of injured users, claiming that the manufacturers ignored early warning signs and failed to conduct adequate safety testing.
Social media has erupted with firsthand accounts and alarming videos showing lids blowing off or steam erupting uncontrollably. Hashtags like #PressureCookerExplosions and #KitchenHazard are now trending, as users share tips on how to stay safe — or avoid using the devices altogether.
The CPSC recommends unplugging any electric pressure cooker immediately if it shows unusual signs, such as leaking steam, strange noises, or difficulty opening or closing the lid. Consumers are also urged not to tamper with the release valve and to always allow extra time for natural pressure release before attempting to open the appliance.
For now, safety officials are working closely with manufacturers to identify the cause and determine whether a recall is necessary. But for the millions of home cooks who depend on these time-saving devices, the warning is clear — convenience isn’t worth the risk when your life could literally be on the line.
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