Metal straws have hidden ‘severe injury’ risk as expert warns for families to be cautious
Many households have opted for personal metal straws to reduce their waste – but an expert has warned they could pose a “severe injury” risk. As plastic straws become increasingly scarce, some popular alternatives could pose a risk of “severe injury,” warns an expert. Environmental consciousness and responsibility have become mainstream topics, with major brands, eateries, and households making significant reductions in their waste production. The primary target has been single-use plastic, particularly the ubiquitous plastic straw.
As a result, many people have switched to alternative straws, from paper to pasta, though most prefer to use their own metal straws. While this shift is likely beneficial for the planet, it could be harmful to health when it comes to metal straws. Lisa Bell, an Oral Health Specialist at BeSeen Hub, warned about the risks associated with metal straws due to their unforgiving rigidity. She explained that if someone were to fall or make a sudden movement while using one, the metal straw could cause serious injury. In extreme cases, it could even puncture a major artery, leading to life-threatening consequences.
Tragic incidents involving metal straws have made headlines before, such as a woman with mobility issues who died in 2018 after a metal straw pierced her eye socket during a fall at her Dorset home. Similarly, in New York in 2022, a 4-year-old boy accidentally pierced his throat with a metal straw while using it to drink yogurt. Despite no external injuries, prompt medical intervention ensured the boy’s full recovery.
The expert emphasised that these risks are particularly high for young children or those with limited mobility or hand control. Lisa advised that even small choices, like opting for a safer material, can make a big difference in preventing accidents. There are various alternatives available on the market, including flexible silicone straws and reusable plastic straws that are still eco-friendly. For those who prefer metal items, parents should be cautious about where these straws are stored as they could pose a risk to children even when not in use.
In conclusion, while the move towards sustainability is commendable, it is essential to balance this with safety considerations, particularly concerning everyday items like straws that may have hidden dangers.
Source: Daily Record
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