A Campaigner, who works tirelessly to get the fire safety message to the public after the tragic death of her son, has raised more than £7,000 to support safety efforts across Teesside.
Former Hartlepool woman Lynn Ford, whose son Andrew died in a chip pan-related fire in December 2005 has worked with businesses and donors for the last few months to raise the much needed funds.
Andrew died after putting a chip pan on after returning home from a friend's birthday and falling asleep on the couch. The house was engulfed by 20ft flames and he died at the scene.
Lynn has spent the last few years campaigning for people to be vigilant in the fight against fire especially at home in the kitchen, where the majority of fires start.
Lynn, who now lives in Stockton, handed over the cheque for £7585.26 at the Gifted and Blessed Store in the town on Wednesday 31 March to Heather Whyman, Chief Executive of the Cleveland Fire Support Network an organisation which works with Cleveland Fire Brigade to drive home safety messages and offer practical support.
The money has been raised by donations from businesses and private individuals and will be used to support “Ban the Pan” a campaign aimed at removing dangerous and outdated chip pans from the home.
It will also help support “After Fire Support” which sees the Cleveland Fire Support Network offer financial assistance to the victims of domestic house fires. The support can be via stop gap items to replace damaged ones or counselling.
Lynn said: “I am intensely grateful to the businesses and people who have supported this cause and am delighted to be handing over a cheque for nearly £8,000. This shows how important fire safety is to the public. The Fire Support Network, who give their time as volunteers, do a wonderful job and need our support.”
Heather Whyman, CEO of the Cleveland Fire Support Network, said:
“Lynn is an outstanding individual who not only raises awareness of the dangers of chip pan fires, but tirelessly supports the Cleveland Fire Support Network as a registered volunteer. As well as this Lynn has recently become a member of the Board of Trustees.”
Posted 30/03/10
