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2026-06-09 – A consumer reported receiving a severe electric shock while using a FOTING pressure washer in wet conditions, according to a recently filed incident report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The incident highlights the dangers of using non-GFCI equipment near water and has been classified as an electric shock hazard. The report was filed on the CPSC's SaferProducts.gov database. Product DetailsBrand Name: FOTING Incident OverviewOn April 10, 2026, a consumer was cleaning patio furniture with a FOTING pressure washer after a light rain. The area was still wet with puddles. The consumer plugged the pressure washer, which had a basic non-GFCI plug, into an outdoor outlet that also lacked ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection. As the consumer moved the machine closer to the furniture, the plug accidentally slipped into a small puddle on the ground. The consumer felt a strong electric shock in both hands while holding the pressure washer's handle, causing them to drop the machine and fall to their knees. The concrete scraped their knees, leaving a shallow cut. Their fingers felt tingly and weak for several days. According to the report, because there was no GFCI to interrupt the current, the shock was more intense than it should have been, and the consumer could not release their grip on the handle right away. The consumer sought medical attention for the injuries. Safety ConcernsImmediate Dangers: Electric shock from a pressure washer can cause muscle contractions, making it difficult to let go of the tool, as described in this incident. The current can disrupt heart rhythms, leading to cardiac arrest, or cause falls resulting in cuts, bruises, or fractures. Environmental Triggers: Water is a highly conductive medium. Using a non-GFCI-equipped pressure washer in wet conditions—such as after rain or on wet ground—dramatically increases the risk of electric shock. Puddles can complete an electrical circuit if the plug or cord contacts water. Warning Signs: A tingling sensation when touching the tool's metal parts or handle can indicate stray voltage. This may precede a more severe shock. Any unusual buzzing or sparking from the plug or outlet also signals danger. Who Might Be Affected: The primary user is at highest risk, but bystanders in contact with wet surfaces or the tool could also be shocked. Children or pets near the area face additional risk due to lower body resistance and potential inability to escape the current. What Our Clients SayWhat Consumers Should DoStop Using Immediately: If you feel any shock or tingling while using a pressure washer, stop using it right away and unplug the device from the outlet, if safe to do so. Do Not Attempt Repairs: Do not try to fix a suspected electrical fault yourself. Have the unit inspected by a qualified electrician or contact the manufacturer for guidance. Preserve the Product: Keep the pressure washer, plug, and cord in the condition they were in at the time of the incident. Do not modify or discard them, as they may be important evidence. Document the Incident: Take photos of the product, the outlet, and the area where the shock occurred. Write down the date, time, and details of what happened while your memory is fresh. Seek Medical Attention: If you experience a shock, even if symptoms seem mild, see a doctor. Electric shock can cause internal injuries that are not immediately apparent. Report to the CPSC: File a report on SaferProducts.gov to help alert other consumers and regulators. Provide as much detail as possible. Check for Recalls: Visit CPSC.gov to see if your pressure washer model has been recalled or has any safety notices. Consumers who suffered injury or property damage from this type of incident may wish to speak with a product liability attorney to discuss their legal options. Manufacturer's ResponseThe manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.
Legal Help AvailableH Law Group is a California product liability law firm representing individuals injured by dangerous and defective products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free consultations to discuss your situation and explore your options. If you or a loved one was injured by FOTING or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation. |
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