The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Firefighters have issued a warning to smokers after a house fire in Donington was caused by a novelty lighter.
Fire crews from Spalding, Billingborough and Kirton were called to the incident on Summerson Close on Wednesday, January 3 after a lighter was not closed properly.
It led to a blaze in the property owners’ kitchen with one person having to be treated for smoke inhalation.
The property’s kitchen was left damaged as a result of the blaze.
A spokesman for Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, said: “There was serious damage by fire to a handbag and contents, a large quantity of clothing and household items, wooden table, chair and carpet tiles.
“There was moderate damage by smoke to 100 per cent of the kitchen diner and clothing and toys in the same room.
“The fire was extinguished using one hose reel.
“The cause has been put down to a novelty cigarette lighter that was incorrectly closed and put back into the handbag. The naked flame ignited contents of the bag.
“Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue administered oxygen to the occupier who suffered severe smoke inhalation and was handed over to ambulance staff.”
Group manager prevention and protection Danny Moss said: “Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue ask people to be aware of the risks involved if you smoke.
“People need to take steps to keep themselves and family members safe in the home.
“More people die in fires caused by smoking than in fires with any other single cause.
“People often smoke late at night when they are tired and it’s all too easy to fall asleep while a cigarette is still burning.
“This particular case was caused by a type of lighter which continues to burn unless you close the lid down properly.
“We would always urge people to take extra care when using this type of lighter and never leave them, or matches, within the reach of children.”
