The boy had to get 38 stitches because the refrigerator suddenly ᴇxᴘʟᴏᴅᴇᴅ, Warning, Do not put these things in the freezer
Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and when children are involved, the consequences can be heartbreaking. One such terrifying incident occurred in Shanghai, where a 5-year-old boy suffered severe facial injuries and required 38 stitches after a soda can exploded in his hands. The cause? A common household habit many don’t think twice about—putting a carbonated drink in the freezer.
The can had been placed in the freezer to chill quickly, but when the boy opened it, the built-up pressure caused a violent explosion. His face was cut by the sharp, jagged edges of the can, serving as a chilling reminder of how dangerous everyday decisions can become.
Medical experts and safety officials are now urging families to be more cautious about what they put in their freezers. Some items, while seemingly harmless, can become hazardous under freezing conditions. Here are key items you should never store in your freezer:
1. Carbonated Beverages
Sodas and sparkling drinks contain pressurized CO₂. When frozen, the liquid expands, increasing internal pressure to dangerous levels. This can cause the can or bottle to rupture or explode unexpectedly. Always chill these drinks in the refrigerator or an ice bucket instead—never in the freezer.
2. Alcoholic Drinks
While many people store alcohol in the freezer for a cold drink, this practice comes with risks. Liquor can expand when frozen, potentially shattering bottles. Moreover, because alcohol is flammable, any contact with a heat source or spark near a cracked bottle could be hazardous. Stick to chilling your drinks over ice or in a cooler environment.
3. Dry Ice
Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide, and as it warms, it turns into gas, expanding rapidly. Storing it in a tightly sealed freezer can result in a dangerous buildup of pressure. If dry ice is trapped in a closed space, it can cause an explosion. Always use insulated containers and handle it with proper protective gear like gloves or tongs.
This incident in Shanghai is not just a story—it’s a warning. A single oversight can lead to life-changing injuries. The boy is now recovering, but the trauma will linger far longer than the physical scars.
The lesson is simple but crucial: the freezer isn’t a catch-all for rapid cooling. Some items can become volatile under the pressure of freezing temperatures. It’s essential to understand the risks and think twice before storing anything that can explode, crack, or react in confined spaces.
Always prioritize safety in the kitchen, especially when children are nearby. What may seem like a harmless shortcut could become a tragedy waiting to happen. Let this story be a wake-up call—and a reason to double-check what’s in your freezer right now.