Investigation and inquest
On 10 November 2014, I commenced an investigation into the death of William Thompson, aged 72 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest earlier today. I made a determination of accidental death.
Circumstances of the death
Mr Thompson died in a fire at his home caused by a discarded cigarette. His bedding caught light and he was killed by smoke inhalation. Mr Thompson lived in supported housing.
Coroner’s concerns
The evidence I heard at inquest was that, whilst smoke and heat detectors were installed in Mr Thompson’s hall and kitchen, there was no smoke detection system in his bedroom.
He was known to be at significantly raised fire risk because of his smoking, drinking and immobility (he used a Zimmer frame). London Fire Brigade had been called to his home more than once in the past. However, his social workers never addressed their minds to the question of whether there was a smoke detector in his bedroom and, if not, whether that might be useful.
This seems to be an area that would benefit from exploration for particularly high risk service users.