Grandfather Saves Granddaughter From Blaze That Destroys Entire Home

Picture from responders.

A 76-year-old man narrowly escaped with his life after a fire destroyed his home in Ban Pho, Suphan Buri, Thailand. The blaze, which is believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, engulfed the elevated single-storey house in the late morning of January 12. The man’s quick actions saved his 23-year-old granddaughter.

At approximately 09:00, Police Lieutenant Nikhom Khunsaat of Mueang Suphan Buri Police Station received reports of a fire at a residence in Ban Pho. Firefighters from local municipal teams and neighbouring districts rushed to the scene but faced significant challenges due to strong winds. Despite their efforts, the fire consumed the house in its entirety within 40 minutes.

The property, which included two bedrooms, a kitchen, a storage room, and three motorbikes, was completely destroyed. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Mr Wichian, the 76-year-old homeowner, recalled that he had been frying eggs in the kitchen when he heard a loud “pop” sound, that he initially dismissed. Moments later, he heard another explosion and turned to see flames spreading rapidly across the electrical wires inside the house.

Realising the severity of the situation, Mr Wichian shouted for his granddaughter, Ms Kalyanee, who was in her bedroom, unaware of the danger.

“I tried to put out the fire with a pot of water, but it was spreading too fast,” said Mr Wichian. “I told my granddaughter to call for help while I alerted the neighbours.”

Ms Kalyanee, who was preparing to graduate next month, managed to drag a gas cylinder from the kitchen to safety before the fire could reach it. “If my grandfather hadn’t called out to me, I might have been trapped and killed,” she said, adding that her graduation gown, which had been custom-made, was destroyed in the blaze.

Mr Wirat Khamhomkun, Mayor of Ban Pho Municipality, coordinated fire-fighting efforts and pledged immediate support for the affected family. He noted that the strong winds and the home’s ageing wooden structure contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

“We urge residents to be vigilant, especially during the dry season. Electrical appliances should be turned off, and wiring systems checked regularly to prevent similar incidents,” the mayor advised.

The family will receive financial assistance from local authorities, with compensation capped at 50,000 baht. Additional essential supplies will also be provided.

The house, which was 50 years old, became a death trap in a matter of minutes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of neglected electrical systems.

While the family mourns the loss of their home, they are grateful for the quick thinking that saved two lives. “We lost everything, but we still have each other,” said Mr Wichian.

-- 2025-01-13