Clearwater, FL — CPSC: Walmart Recalls MaxKare Electric Blankets Over Burn and Fire Risks
23Jun
Clearwater, FL (June 23rd, 2005) – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall for approximately 8,600 MaxKare electric blankets sold exclusively through Walmart.com. The recall was prompted by 34 separate reports of the blankets overheating, including three confirmed burn injuries and two fires.
At Light & Wyatt Law Group, we closely monitor dangerous product recalls and CPSC warnings to help protect our Clearwater community from serious injuries and avoidable tragedies. If you suffered injuries or your loved one died because of a dangerous or defective product, we urge you to contact our law firm. We help injury victims recover compensation for their losses and hold negligent retailers and manufacturers accountable.
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Which MaxKare Electric Blankets Are Included in the Recall?
The electric blankets involved in the Walmart recall include MaxKare models HB18A‑6284‑1 (twin), HB18A‑7284‑1 (full), and HB18A‑8490‑2 (queen). These products were sold in brown and gray colors and featured a controller with six heat settings and a nine-hour automatic shutoff. Though advertised as machine washable, these blankets pose a significant overheating hazard.
These blankets were available for purchase between June 2021 and November 2024 at Walmart.com and were priced between $27 and $80. All were manufactured by Shenzhen Yumo Commerce and Trade Co. Ltd. in China.
What Should Clearwater Consumers Do If They Own a Recalled Blanket?
If you purchased one of the recalled MaxKare electric blankets, stop using it immediately. Unplug it and do not attempt to test it. The manufacturer is offering refunds, but you must submit a photo of the destroyed plug and confirm the disposal of the blanket.
Clearwater residents should also gather and preserve any documentation related to the purchase. For instance, this includes receipts, confirmation emails, shipping information, and any photos of the product. If an injury or property damage has occurred, these documents could support a legal claim.
Injured by a Defective Blanket? Understanding Florida Product Liability Law
Burns, smoke inhalation, and property damage caused by a defective product may give rise to a personal injury claim in Florida. Clearwater residents injured by MaxKare electric blankets may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, property loss, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
When Is a Product Manufacturer Liable in Florida?
Florida product liability law allows injured consumers to pursue compensation if a product is found to be defective in its design, manufacturing, or labeling. A company may also be found negligent if it failed to conduct proper safety testing or delayed issuing a recall after learning about risks.
If you experienced injury or loss due to a recalled blanket, it’s critical to gather and retain all relevant documentation, including photos, medical records, witness accounts, and consult with a local personal injury lawyer.
Why Time Is Critical After a Product Injury in Clearwater
Personal injury claims in Florida, including those filed when products cause harm, must generally be filed within two years from the date of the injury. Delaying action could jeopardize your ability to recover damages.
Additionally, evidence can disappear quickly. Fires may destroy the blanket or surroundings. You should take photos of any damage and injuries, get a medical evaluation, and collect witness statements as soon as possible. Participating in the refund process won’t prevent you from pursuing a legal claim, but make sure to preserve all documentation before disposal.
How Florida’s Comparative Negligence Rule May Affect Your Case
Florida applies a modified comparative negligence standard. As such, your compensation could be reduced if you’re found partially responsible for your injury. For example, if you failed to follow safety instructions or left the blanket on unattended, the manufacturer may argue that your actions contributed to the harm.
If the injury or fire occurred in a rented home or apartment, property owner liability may also be relevant. Landlords have legal duties to maintain safe living environments, and you may have additional claims if a landlord ignored known hazards.
Damages Available in Clearwater Product Injury Lawsuits
Florida law allows injured parties to pursue economic and non-economic damages in product liability cases. These may include:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost income and reduced earning potential
- Property repair or replacement costs
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Scarring, disfigurement, or long-term physical effects
In extreme cases, punitive damages may be available if the manufacturer acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for consumer safety.
How a Clearwater Product Liability Lawyer Can Help
A Clearwater personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and evaluate whether you have a valid claim. Your lawyer may gather critical evidence, work with experts to analyze the defect, and handle communications with insurance companies and opposing counsel.
Product liability claims often require technical analysis and proof of a direct link between the defective product and your injuries. A knowledgeable attorney will develop a strategy to build your case and seek full compensation.
Stay Safe: Sign Up for Product Recall Alerts
To help avoid injuries from dangerous consumer products, Clearwater residents should regularly check for updates from the CPSC. You can subscribe to recall alerts at CPSC.gov or follow local news outlets like FOX13 Tampa Bay.
The MaxKare electric blanket recall is listed under recall number 25-351. Consumers with questions can also call the CPSC at 1-800-638-2772.
Injured by a Defective Electric Blanket? Light & Wyatt Law Group Can Help
If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to a faulty MaxKare electric blanket or another dangerous product, you may be entitled to compensation. Product manufacturers and retailers have a legal obligation to ensure their products are safe. When they fail to meet that obligation, they can be held accountable for the injuries and damages that result.
At Light & Wyatt Law Group in Clearwater, our product liability attorneys advocate for injury victims and their families, helping them recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. We bring extensive experience to product defect claims and are committed to pursuing justice on your behalf.
If you’ve been injured by a recalled product, don’t wait. Contact Light & Wyatt Law Group today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights. 727-499-9900.
James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.
Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association