Investigation and inquest
On 16 September 2020 I commenced an investigation into the death of Neil BARRE. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 12 November 2020. The conclusion of the inquest was ‘Accident’ with the death having resulted from burns sustained during a house fire.
Circumstances of the death
Mr Barre died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham on 11th September 2020 from burns sustained in a fire at his home in Cannock. Earlier that day he had dropped a cigarette while smoking in bed despite having been warned about the dangers of this activity.
Coroner’s concerns
During the course of the inquest a suggestion was made that it may be helpful for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service to be aware of when those receiving domiciliary care are not using special equipment (such as fire retardant blankets) that are provided to them. Staffordshire FARS may well have links with groups providing care and there could be greater use of communications with such groups.