Man injured in explosion

(CNS): A man has been injured during a home explosion that occurred in a one-bedroom concrete residence in Northward this morning (Wednesday 22 April), according to reports from the Cayman Islands Fire Service. The property on Fig Tree Drive is said to have received extensive damage as a result of a home propane stove burner being left on, and the man is currently in hospital receiving treatment. CIFS said that it received a call at 7:33 am from a Northward resident reporting the explosion.

The caller stated that there were no longer signs of fire or smoke but one person had been injured by the explosion. A fire vehicle was dispatched from Central Fire Station, arriving at the scene at 7:50 am. CIFS investigators report that the structure’s windows were blown out, the roof was lifted from the belting, and doors were blown off their hinges and destroyed.

An investigation into the cause of the explosion is been carried out but preliminary findings indicate that a stove burner, which was apparently left on, caused an accumulation of gas that ignited. Officers are testing the gas line for leaks, as well as the stove.

This is the third residential propane incident this year involving a kitchen appliance. Chief Fire Officer Dennom Bodden said residents using gas stoves must ensure that gas lines and appliances are in proper working condition.  Propane tanks, including the small portable tanks, should be stored outdoors. If any scent of gas is detected, residents should not turn on electric lights or any other possible igniters, CIFS said. The area should be ventilated, and the gas source turned off. Residents should leave the building and contact the fire service if necessary.  Smoke and gas detectors should also be installed.

For more information on preventing and detecting residential fires, contact the Fire Services’ Deputy Chief Fire Officer Doorley McLaughlin who has responsibility for the Fire Prevention Unit.