14 Feb, 2022/ by National Accident Helpline /News
While it gives cause for romantic celebration, sometimes 14th February can cause more harm than good.
With Valentine's Day bringing potential for suffering food poisoning or burns from candle fires, we are warning of the possible dangers and how to avoid an unnecessary trip to A&E on this special day.
1. Candle fires
Lighting a candle or two is a great way to create a romantic atmosphere. However, if not handled carefully, candles can be extremely dangerous.
According to the London Fire Brigade, over 200 fires at homes in the capital involved candles in 2020 and research shows that candle fires result in around 350 casualties in the UK each year. Common injuries reported from candles include burns, cuts from glass candle holders breaking, and smoke inhalation.
To avoid the risk of house fires, keep candles away from anything that could set alight, such as curtains or wooden surfaces. It's also recommended that you never use a candle with a wick over a quarter of an inch.
2. Food poisoning
Lots of couples decide to treat themselves on Valentine's Day and go out for a nice meal. However, if the food you consume is undercooked or contaminated, this can result in you getting food poisoning and the venue is likely to be held liable for this.
Under the Consumer Protection Act 1987, if a customer can prove that a venue or caterer has caused them to become poisoned by food, the provider could be held liable.
Additionally, if your food poisoning is caused by poor hygiene, then the establishment that cooked it for you were negligent and you could make a claim.
3. Road traffic accidents
You might want to celebrate Valentine's Day by enjoying a glass of your favourite tipple with your other half - but if you're planning on having a drink or two with your loved one, do not also plan to drive.
The latest data shows that in 2019, there were between 210 and 250 fatalities in road accidents in Great Britain where at least one driver was over the drink-drive limit.
Road traffic accident injuries take time to heal and can be permanent, life-changing, life-threatening, or even cause further health complications. If you are at fault as a result of being over the drink-drive limit, not only have you broken the law, but this leaves you liable in the case of a claim.
4. Cooking disasters
If you're planning on making your loved one a home-cooked meal this Valentine's Day, make sure that the pressure of pulling off the perfect meal doesn't leave you with a serious injury before you get chance to eat it.
Kitchens can be a health hazard at the best of times, but even more so when you have the added stress of cooking for someone else. Make sure you take extra care to avoid serious burns, lacerations, and fire hazards by staying alert and calm in the kitchen - don't try to do too much at once.
No matter how you choose to mark Valentine's Day, no-one wants an accidental injury to spoil their fun.
Whatever your plans, don't forget to take care with lit candles and when using kitchen knives, and if you need to drive home at the end of the night, remember not to get too carried away with your favourite tipple.