75-Year-Old Woman’s Bonfire Sparks Grassfire, Nearly Spreads to Sattahip Community

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders.

 

A fire broke out in a grassland near residential homes in the Khao Phet community, Sattahip, Chonburi, on the morning of January 15, after a 75-year-old woman lit a bonfire to burn waste. Strong winds quickly spread the flames, endangering the surrounding area.

 

At approximately 08:20, Mr. Seksan Iamsuk, the village head of Sattahip Moo 3, received reports of a fire in a grass field near homes in Soi Sattahip Sukhumvit 41. Emergency services were promptly contacted, and fire engines from Sattahip Municipality and Udomsak Subdistrict Municipality were dispatched to the scene.

 

The fire, which engulfed an area of about two rai, burned fiercely due to strong winds, causing thick black smoke to blanket the area. Concerned residents feared the flames would reach their homes. Firefighters battled the blaze for over an hour before successfully extinguishing it.

 

Upon investigation, it was revealed that the fire had been started by Mrs. Somchit, aged 75, who admitted to burning a small pile of leaves and rubbish. She claimed she had no intention of causing such widespread damage, stating she did not anticipate the wind would carry the fire to the nearby grassland.

Village head Mr. Seksan issued a strong warning to Mrs. Somchit, reminding her and the community that such actions are illegal. He highlighted the potential penalties under Thai law, which include up to three months in prison or a fine of up to 25,000 baht. If the act results in harm or damage to others, offenders could face up to seven years in prison and a fine of 140,000 baht.

 

Authorities are urging residents to refrain from burning waste to ensure community safety and to avoid violating legal regulations. “We must work together to prevent incidents like this and maintain the safety of our community,” Mr. Seksan stated.

 

 

-- 2025-01-16

 

 

[gargamon]

California here we come...

[watchcat]

On 1/15/2025 at 9:21 PM, gargamon said:

California here we come...

 

No need to go there as we have "bonfire granny" right here on our doorstep.