The failure of an extension cord is believed to have ignited the fire that led to the death of one-year-old Harley Persad at her Endeavour, Chaguanas home on Wednesday.
The T&T Police Service (TTPS) yesterday said it was aware of the preliminary report suggesting an electrical fire as the cause, but noted officers were awaiting the final report from the T&T Fire Service (TTFS).
Speaking to Guardian Media yesterday, Fire Prevention Officer Jude Rogers said, “We understand the cause of the fire to be the failure of an electrical component and that would have gotten superheated and it would have ignited combustible material that was in close proximity.”
Rogers said the fire was accidental and no one was to blame for the tragic incident.
The fire started while the toddler was asleep in her bedroom shortly after 11 am. Harley’s parents, both farmers, her grandparents and neighbours rushed to her assistance but were too late to save her.
“This can happen to any household,” Rogers warned.
He added, “The fact that you have items plugged in and you leave your home and you may go to work and have these items still plugged in while it is not functioning at the time, that in itself is a hazard.”
Rogers saidthe Fire Service was asking members of the public to unplug devices that were not in use. He also urged people to provide additional plugs for additional appliances, as overloading a circuit could have serious consequences.
Rogers warned that some of the extension outlets that were being used may not have the Underwriter Laboratories (UL) Listed, which meant the product met internationally recognised standards for sustainability and safety.
“It is a standard that allows you to know that the component will not fail under high intensity heat or under the flow of electricity,” he added.
The Fire Service advised that households must seek re-certification of the electrical wiring in their homes from the electrical inspectorate every five years.
Rogers also advised the public to install smoke detectors in each of their rooms.