A 12-year-old boy is currently hospitalized with severe burns after a battery explosion ignited a devastating fire that destroyed eight rental houses at God Jope Trading Center in Lambwe West, Homa Bay County.
The boy sustained burns on his left hand while attempting to disconnect the battery and was swiftly taken to Ogongo Health Center for urgent medical care.
According to Fredrick Onyango Odero, the Acting Chief of Lambwe West, the explosion occurred when the boy was trying to disconnect a battery that was linked to a solar panel.
The blast triggered a rapidly spreading inferno, engulfing his home and seven other nearby houses constructed from corrugated iron sheets.
Neighbors who heard the explosion rushed to the scene, managed to rescue the boy, and quickly transported him to the hospital.
Unfortunately, by the time help arrived, the fire had already wreaked havoc, leaving the buildings completely destroyed.
Chief Onyango stated that the fire obliterated all belongings in the affected homes, rendering at least ten families homeless.
Many of these families were forced to spend the night outdoors, left with nothing but the clothes on their backs as their possessions turned to ash.
In the aftermath of this tragic event, local authorities and community members are mobilizing efforts to provide support and assistance to the displaced families.
Relief initiatives are being organized to help them rebuild their lives and secure basic necessities during this challenging time.
The community is rallying together to ensure that those affected receive the help they need, emphasizing the importance of unity and compassion in the face of adversity.
As investigations into the cause of the battery explosion continue, residents are reminded of the potential dangers associated with electrical equipment and the need for safety precautions.
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