Cigarette was 'likely' cause of fatal bungalow fire

A fire engine and police care in Olton Road in Mickleover
Image caption,

Emergency services were called to the address in Mickleover last month

  • Published

A bungalow fire that resulted in the death of a 70-year-old man in Derby was likely caused by a cigarette, an investigation has found.

Emergency crews were called to Olton Road in Mickleover early on 30 July to reports of smoke.

The occupant was located and brought out of the property but was pronounced dead at the scene.

A joint police and fire service investigation found the most likely cause to be accidental due to the occupant falling asleep in a chair while smoking.

The investigation also found there were no working smoke alarms in the property.

The fire service has reissued advice on smoking, including never smoking in bed, using correct ashtrays, and to never leave a lit cigarette or pipe unattended.

Anyone who does not have smoke alarms or has difficulty fitting them can contact the fire service to see if they are eligible for a home visit.

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