"Of course, it took time for refrigeration to reach the masses, and most people were still using insulated ice boxes throughout much of the 1800s. However, by the late 1920s, refrigerators were starting to become a common feature in American homes. But while refrigerators were a game-changing invention, even today's models are far from perfect. Things can - and do - go wrong with these handy appliances, sometimes with serious consequences."
"We've mentioned that refrigerators pose a fire risk, but it's important to underscore just how dangerous these appliances can be when things go wrong. In the U.S. alone, refrigerators and freezers caused more than 1,700 fires between 2006 and 2010. Nearly 20 people were injured as a result, and two people died. These fires also caused around $23 million in property damage, according to Consumer Reports."
William Cullen demonstrated artificial refrigeration in 1748, but widespread household refrigeration developed slowly, with insulated ice boxes common through the 1800s and electric refrigerators becoming common by the late 1920s. Modern refrigerators still pose safety risks, including fractured bones, house fires, and poisonous gas emissions. Between 2006 and 2010 U.S. refrigerators and freezers caused over 1,700 fires, about $23 million in property damage, nearly 20 injuries, and two deaths. Such incidents remain rare relative to the number of appliances in use. Manufacturers and distributors commonly issue recalls, offering repairs, replacements, and refunds for dangerous models.
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