by 
The Curious Bag
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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Proper Use
Lava lamps are designed for use in homes, and they have safety features so they will not be harmful when used properly. Polarized plugs maintain a safe electrical circuit. The contents of a lava lamp are a trade secret, but they are not hazardous.
On the Other: Improper Use
Lava lamps get very hot and can cause burns if they are touched for too long, especially near the base. Lava lamps can cause fatal injuries if heated with an external source, as evidenced by a man whose lava lamp exploded and killed him when he heated it on a stove.
Bottom Line
Lava lamps are not harmful when they are used properly. Proper use includes heating them only with the included base and correct wattage light bulb and maintaining a safe distance from children because the lava lamp base gets very hot.
Source:
Associated Press; Exploding Lava Lamp Kills Kent Man; November 2004.
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