The Western Times - Exeter Friday 26 Apr 1929
Page 14 Column 6
DEATH FROM SCALDS
Coroner's Comments at a Tiverton Inquest
“Accidental death” was the verdict returned at an inquest at Tiverton on Tuesday evening on Raymond William GLIDDON, aged eight years, son of Police Constable GLIDDON, of 3, Council Gardens, who died in the Tiverton Hospital on Monday as the result of scalds.
Police Constable GLIDDON said deceased was bathing and called for more hot water, which had to be dipped from the copper as there was no tap or hot water pipe. Witness' sister, Mrs. Bessie GALLOP, went to comply with the request, and witness heard screams. He found that the boy had been badly scalded, and applied oil, later taking him to the hospital.
The Coroner read the evidence of Mrs. GALLOP, who said that while her back was turned to dip the water from the copper the boy shifted his position in the bath. She turned round and saw him, but could not say what actually happened. The boy's head might have touched the bowl. The water went over his neck and back.
Dr. G. LOWE said death was due to toxemia following extensive scalding. Over one-third of the child's body was severely scalded.
The Corner <sic> said he thought it was a dangerous practice to pour hot water into a bath when there was someone in it. There was excuse in this case owing to the absence of a hot water pipe. He was told that all local Council houses were without hot water pipes. It was a very small matter of five to seven feet of piping, and it would be desirable if hot water was laid on.
<Another
newspaper articles says 31 Council Gardens, Tiverton>