Sharon Soares

On 11 November 2016 an investigation into the death of Sharon Ann Soares was commenced and on 5t January 2017 an investigation into the death of Blaise Sanito Alvares was commenced. Sharon Soares who was aged 30 died on 9"n November and her husband Blaise Alvares who was 33, died on 23rd December 2016. Although their deaths occurred more than a month apart; both died as a result of injuries sustained during a fire at their home at 141 Manchester Road, Swindon on 6"h November 2016. At the inquest hearing today concluded that both individuals had died as a result of an accident:

At some time after 11 pm on Sunday 6th November 2016 a fire broke out in the downstairs living room of 141 Manchester Road, Swindon_ At the time there were individuals in the house_ three bedroomed terraced property. The fire was intense and produced thick choking smoke_ substantially reducing visibility, problem which was exacerbated by the fact that the electricity supply tripped out eliminating artificial lighting: The conclusion of a thorough fire investigation report was that the probable cause of the fire was the ignition of combustible materials including curtain, clothing and bedding materials by exposure to naked flame from a bio ethanol heater. One of the seven individuals within the house managed to escape through an upstairs window: However; the remaining six were trapped within the property and had it not been for the prompt actions of mempers of the public the attending fire brigade, all six would have perished: As it was Soares and Mr Alvares, although rescued died subsequently from their injuries.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and believe you have the power to take such action to address the concern highlighted above by publishing safety warnings in relation to the use of bio ethanol heaters indoors