Man Gets Third-Degree Burns From Fitbit That Started Smouldering While He Slept

I kind of have a fear of electronics-related accidents.

Especially when I’m asleep.

Catching fire as I nap, a faulty battery exploding out of nowhere, and overcharged phones doing not-so magical things.

We actually have an article relating to that last point over here. 

A lot of these fears are why I usually turn off almost all electronics when not in use or place them far away during bedtime.

Also because nightmares like what you’re going to read next may happen.

Like Melting Into His Skin

That subheader hurt to even type.

According to World Of Buzz, a Facebook user who goes by Ethan Landers in Iowa recently made a post about a nasty encounter with a Fitbit watch.

Warning: pictures show a bit of graphic content so view at your own risk.

Ethan was sleeping on 23 October when he suddenly woke up to his wrist burning.

He realised that his Fitbit was burning up but he couldn’t get it off. So, he turned the lights on, asking his wife to help him. All the while, he described the burning like it “melted through his arm”.

They quickly called a nurse and was told to go to the ER since the wound was white and already blistering.

Luckily, they managed to get the wound cleaned up in time and made sure no debris got stuck in his arm.

I’m cringing so hard just thinking about it. Lucky for me, you guys get to see it too.

Unfortunately, things didn’t get much better for Ethan.

His next appointment at a wound clinic revealed that he had a third-degree burn. This required him to get a skin graft.

The damage was so bad that Ethan claimed to be unable to feel parts of his wrist. He also said that he’ll have a “large scar that will be with [him] the rest of [his] life”.

Can’t even begin to imagine it. 

Is Fitbit At Fault?

At the very least, Ethan thinks it is. I don’t blame the guy though.

He ends how post off warning others about using a Fitbit should something like this happen to them as well.

Fitbit noticed the incident though, and even had a word with the Daily Mail on the matter.

“We are extremely concerned about Mr. Landers’ complaint regarding his Ionic, as the health and safety of our customers is our top priority.

“Based on our internal and independent third-party testing and analysis, we do not believe this type of injury could occur from normal use.”

The plot thickens.

I understand Ethan’s anger, especially over such a serious accident. However, we can’t be too sure as well, especially after Fitbit’s statement.

Lastly, while I know it should be ok to wear Fitbits to sleep, maybe being extra careful once in a while could save you from a nasty accident.