The cause of a fatal fire in Kirkby in Ashfield has been ruled as accidental. On Monday, November 14, an inquest into Paul and Jayne Foster came to a conclusion, with Gordon Clow, assistant coroner for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, concluding the fire was caused by accidental ignition from a candle.
The incident took place on January 29, 2022, when shortly before 7pm a passer-by called the emergency services after noticing a fire at the Fosters' home in Forster Street. Upon arrival firefighters immediately identified a severe fire that had spread throughout the property.
The couple was discovered by the crew in the kitchen and despite efforts to resuscitate the couple, they were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Read More: Neighbours concerns after catalytic converters stolen
In his closing statement, Mr Clow said: "On 29 January 2022 Mr and Mrs Foster lit a candle in their bedroom and shut the door to the room. The candle set a fabric cover alight and caused a major fire to develop in their bedroom, without their knowledge, within a few minutes.
"Some minutes later the door to the bedroom fell outwards as a result of the build-up of fire and super-heated smoke. That smoke then engulfed the property within seconds, overcoming Mr and Mrs Foster who were in the kitchen at the other end of their small property.
"This resulted in their very quick loss of consciousness. The alarm was raised by a passer-by and the fire service attended."
He continued: "Unfortunately, it was too late to save the lives of Mr and Mrs Foster, who were pronounced deceased at the scene. There were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire and there was no third-party involvement.
"I’d like to report my thanks to the brave young person who made the initial 999 call. He should be commended for his efforts.”
Mr Clow ruled that the medical cause of death for Mr Paul Foster was carbon monoxide poisoning and smoke inhalation, with a secondary cause of ischaemic heart disease. He ruled that Mrs Jayne Foster’s medical cause of death was smoke inhalation injury, with a secondary cause of ischaemic heart disease.
Chris Emmott, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager and Fire Investigation Officer, said: “This was a tragic incident that sadly resulted in the loss of two lives. My thanks go out to the attending crews and Joint Fire Control operators for their quick work.
“We know that candles are frequently used within the home, but I would urge everyone to remember the potential dangers they present. Great care should be taken to ensure they are in correct holders, on a stable base.
"Keep flames away from anything that could catch fire, and never leave them unattended. Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service would like to offer our sincere condolences to Mr and Mrs Foster’s family for their loss, they will be dearly missed.”
Families that would like to book a home safety visit should visit the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service website for more information.
Read Next:
Concerns in village where cars are 'flying down' road to avoid roadworks
Mum's heartfelt tribute to popular son who 'heaven called early'
MP details electricity bill for Nottingham HMRC office block 'lit up like a Christmas tree'
Police knife search at Nottingham play area after large groups congregate
'Terrified' Nottinghamshire woman fears she may lose 'big chunk' of her thumb after dog bite
