Warning issued after woodburner involved in accidental death

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued some safety advice after a coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death following a fire involving a woodburner at the home of an elderly man in Ickleton earlier this year.

CFRS carried out a fire investigation following the fire at the three-storey home of David Isaac, 74, in Church Street, Ickleton, in January.

At an inquest into Mr Isaac’s death, Assistant Coroner Simon Milburn said Mr Isaac had died from thermal injuries and recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Group Commander Kevin Napier, head of community fire safety at Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, told the inquest that burnt remains of a wicker basket were found on top of a wood burner in Mr Isaac’s home. The fire is believed to have started after the heat from the woodburner set fire to the wicker basket, which contained kindling.

 “I have no doubt that ashes on top of the woodburner were remnants of the wicker basket,” said GC Napier.

During the inquest, Mr Isaac’s estranged wife, Jo, thanked the Fire Service for its work under difficult circumstances.

Speaking after the verdict was delivered, GC Napier said: “I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family of Mr Isaac for what is a very sad event.

“What this fire demonstrates is that even with this being a tragic accident, due care needs to be taken when using open fires, log burners or wood stoves. If you are buying a woodburner make sure you get it fitted or installed by an expert and follow the manufacturer’s guidance on use.”

Our safety advice page on heating and open fires can be found here http://bit.ly/1QIoyV2. 

For further safety advice as well as how to find an approved retailer, installer and chimney sweep in your area, please visit the Hetas webstie at www.hetas.co.uk.