Smoke killed woman in fire

A woman died of smoke inhalation shortly after putting out a fire which started at her Kidderminster home, an inquest heard.

Kathleen Ash, aged 60, of Biset Avenue, was discovered in her bedroom by police officers on the morning of October 4, 2009. It is believed a small fire started at her home and that Mrs Ash, managed to put it out.

However, during the course of this, the administrator inhaled too much smoke and later died.

Two Jehovah's Witnesses raised the alarm after they paid Mrs Ash a visit and could not get an answer, Worcestershire Coroners Court heard yesterday.

When officers entered the house, they discovered Mrs Ash's body on the floor. She was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

Fire investigation officers were called in after smoke stains were found on Mrs Ash's bedroom walls.

In a statement from Jehovah's Witness John Randle read out at the inquest, he said: "Me and my son were calling on residents in the area as part of our work.

"We got To Biset Avenue and thought something was strange." He then called the police who forced entry and found a body inside.

Alan Haley, fire investigation officer at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "There had been a fire which had put put out or gone out by itself.

"There was evidence that a bowl of water had been used to put the fire out.

"I concluded that the fire started accidentally. It was most likely accidental."

It is not known how long Mrs Ash, who was a smoker, had been dead but Mr Haley added the cause of the fire was probably due to discarded smoking materials.

Deputy coroner Margaret Barnard ruled Mrs Ash died as a result of an accident.