A potentially catastrophic incident unfolded in Bon Accord, Tobago, on October 26, when a defective LPG gas tank caused an explosion at the home of Tamecia Cox. The explosion occurred during the bustling carnival celebrations in Scarborough, but thanks to the quick actions of Cox’s family and the solidarity of her neighbors, disaster was averted. Cox, visibly relieved, recounted the harrowing experience in an interview on October 28. She and her family were in their kitchen on Gaskin Bay Road when the explosion ignited a sudden blaze. Fortunately, the house was equipped with two fire extinguishers, which her children knew how to use, slowing the fire’s spread. Cox emphasized the importance of community support, stating, ‘It pays to live good with people. Everybody in the community came out to help.’ Her daughter sustained minor burns, but the family emerged otherwise unharmed. Devon Thomas, a neighbor, was particularly praised for risking his life to remove the gas tank from the house. Cox also expressed gratitude to the Crown Point Fire Station and Police Station for their swift response. Tobago East MP David Thomas, a retired Assistant Chief Fire Officer, urged homeowners and businesses to exercise caution with gas cylinders, recalling a similar fatal incident four years ago. He explained that while gas tanks rarely explode, leaks can create highly volatile environments, especially when combined with flammable materials. Thomas stressed the importance of regular maintenance and vigilance to prevent such tragedies.
