Fireworks cause inferno, destroys family home in Gitaru

FILE IMAGE OF A POLICE LINE

The move by a four-year-old girl to set off fireworks to celebrate the new year left her family in sadness after the pyrotechnics set off a fire that destroyed their home in Gitaru, Kiambu County.

The mother of the child told police the fire was ignited by a firework that was set off by her daughter in their bedroom.

The family had brought fireworks to join other Kenyans in ushering the New Year in style. This turned tragic as it caused a fire which destroyed their house.

Several other Kenyans had used fireworks in celebrating the New Year.

The owner of the house Joyce Warusa said that the fire emanated from the bedroom where her four-year old child tried to ignite the fireworks-producing item.

“We heard explosions and I thought it was coming from the kitchen and later smoke which led to the fire,” she said in an interview.

She said the fire spread faster destroying property. No injuries were however reported. A fire engine rushed to the scene but nothing was salvaged, police said.

Police said they were investigating the incident.

The incident came after Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja issued warnings on the use of the fireworks ahead of the New Year celebrations.

Kanja urged Kenyans to be mindful when using fireworks, especially around children, the elderly, and persons with special needs. He stressed that fireworks should only be handled by licensed operators with the necessary approvals.

Kanja warned that unregulated use of fireworks posed serious risks, including fires, injuries, and panic. He also called on parents to know the whereabouts of their children during the celebrations and reminded business owners and managers of entertainment venues to maintain order and comply with safety regulations.

“Unregulated use poses serious risks, including fires, injuries, and unnecessary panic. Let us celebrate in a manner that does not endanger others or disturb the public peace,” Kanja said.

Many Kenyans had ushered the New Year without serious incidents.