Caution: Never Put These Items in Your Freezer
In Shanghai, a terrifying accident involving a 5-year-old boy has served as a powerful warning to parents and households everywhere. The child had placed a can of fizzy drink in the freezer in hopes of chilling it quickly. However, when he opened it, the can exploded, causing severe injuries to his face. He required a total of 38 stitches.
Medical professionals emphasize that freezing carbonated beverages can be extremely risky. The low temperatures cause pressure to build inside the can, which may lead to sudden and dangerous ruptures.
According to safety experts, here are three items that should never be stored in your freezer:
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Soda or Other Carbonated Drinks
As the liquid freezes, it expands and builds up intense pressure within the can or bottle. This can lead to an explosion that may cause serious injury or property damage. -
Alcoholic Beverages
Though not all alcohol freezes solid, many types can still develop dangerous pressure when exposed to sub-zero temperatures. In some cases, the bottle may crack or burst, or in rare instances, flammable vapors can create a fire hazard. -
Dry Ice
Storing dry ice in a freezer is extremely unsafe. As it sublimates (turns directly from solid to gas), it rapidly expands. This can cause a dangerous pressure buildup and potentially damage or destroy the freezer itself.
To prevent accidents like the one in Shanghai, it’s important to use proper storage methods. Always read product labels and think twice before tossing something in the freezer “just to cool it faster.” What might seem like a quick fix could lead to a trip to the emergency room.