A senior citizen received a caution about the hazards of smoking in bed just days before he tragically perished in a house fire, as revealed in an inquest.
James Stokes, also known as Jim, was declared deceased at his residence in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, on August 18 the previous year. The fire department was alerted when a neighbor spotted smoke emanating from the property at 11:20 pm.
The 77-year-old was found lying flat on his bed, where the fire had originated, with an ashtray nearby and three lighters on the floor. At an inquest conducted by coroner Amanda Bewley at Nottingham Coroner’s Court, it was disclosed that Mr. Stokes, who was immobile due to a hip fracture, had a habit of smoking hand-rolled cigarettes in bed.
The court learned that Mr. Stokes had two caregivers who visited him four times daily, with the last visit occurring at 10:10 pm, just an hour before the fire broke out. Fire investigation officer Bethany Pearson informed coroner Bewley that three fire engines were dispatched to Mr. Stokes’ residence, which was filled with smoke.
Mrs. Pearson mentioned that on August 1, Mr. Stokes’ nurse, Janice Knowles, had reported him for smoking in bed after finding cigarette ash on the bed along with a cigarette under him. Despite Ms. Knowles’ warning about the dangers, Mr. Stokes refused a referral to the fire service.
Following consultation with Mr. Stokes’ niece, Claire Bonser, the referral was eventually made. Coroner Bewley concluded that Mr. Stokes succumbed to the effects of the house fire, caused by a likely naked flame from lighting a cigarette, leading to his clothes or bedding catching fire.
Describing her uncle as obstinate, Ms. Bonser expressed frustration, stating that she had repeatedly advised Mr. Stokes to cease smoking in bed but to no avail. She emphasized her love for him despite his stubbornness and the tragic outcome.