Tragedy struck a family from Zenzele, when their 17-month-old baby boy succumbed to the burns sustained in a fire at their home last week.
It is said the shack the family was living in burnt down at about 6pm on Saturday, 22 April, and the baby sadly died in hospital two days later.
Also Read: Man burns to death in house fire
Captain Appel Ernst, Randfontein Police’s spokesperson confirmed, “It is alleged by the father of the baby that the shack was on fire and he realised the boy was still inside. He ran in and rescued the boy, who had already sustained burn wounds on the face and body,” she said.
Ernst added that during the rescue, the father also sustained burn wounds. They were both transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. The injuries to the baby were severe and he was transferred to the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital for specialised treatment.
Also Read: Stay warm this winter… safely
Warrant Officer Lindie Breytenbach is investigating to determine the cause of the fire and the child’s subsequent death.
Ernst also warned that because the winter months are upon us, preventative measures must be put in place when keeping warm. People should take extra care with open flames, paraffin stoves, fires and any other form of heating equipment. Do not leave them unattended and ensure that they are not accessible to children and frail persons.
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