Siblings die from inhaling burnt rice smoke
Two siblings aged 14 and 4 have died after inhaling smoke from burnt food in Kuwadzana Extension suburb in Harare, police said on Monday.
Atidaishe Makechemu, 10, and Atipaishe Makechemu, 8, were rushed to a local clinic after being found unconscious by neighbours along with three others, including their mother.
“They died on admission,” police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi said. “The three other victims were referred to Sally Mugabe Hospital where they are currently admitted.”
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Nyathi said neighbours went to the Makechemu home early Monday after noticing smoke coming from the house.
The neighbours found five people lying unconscious. On the stove, which was on, there was a pot with burnt rice which police believe was the source of the smoke.
Smoke from burnt food can inflame one’s airways and lungs, leading to respiratory distress.