A coroner has issued a stark warning after a woman tragically died when her neck got caught in a malfunctioning Ottoman storage bed.

Seaham resident Helen Davey, aged 39, found herself "unable to free herself" when the mattress platform unexpectedly dropped, ensnaring her neck against the bed's base. An inquiry into Ms. Davey's death revealed the malfunction of one of the gas-lift pistons responsible for raising the mattress, leading to a verdict of accidental death.

Jeremy Chipperfield, the senior coroner for Durham and Darlington, has taken proactive steps by contacting government officials to urge measures that would avoid similar tragedies linked to these faulty mechanisms.

Faulty Ottoman Bed Mechanism

In his statement, Mr Chipperfield remarked: "The deceased was leaning over the storage area of an Ottoman-styled 'gas-lift bed' when the mattress platform descended unexpectedly, trapping her neck against the upper surface of the side panel of the bed's base. Unable to free herself, she died of positional asphyxia."

He further expressed concern based on insights gained during the inquest: "During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless action is taken.", reports Chronicle Live.

Call for Action

Mr Chipperfield has emphasized to both the Office for Product Safety and Standards and the Department for Business and Trade the urgent need to address the potential fatal risks posed by the failure of gas piston bed mechanisms.

In conclusion, he asserted: "In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you have the power to take such action."

Ottoman beds are a popular choice for those wanting to keep bedding or unseasonal clothes out of sight. However, the gas-lift hydraulics that allow the base of these beds to be raised can malfunction, posing a risk to life.

The coroner's warning highlights the importance of product safety and the need for manufacturers to ensure that their products are safe for consumers. It is also a reminder for consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with any product, especially those that involve mechanisms that could malfunction.

A Tragic Loss

Helen Davey's death is a tragic reminder of the importance of product safety. It is a reminder that even seemingly innocuous products can be dangerous if they are not properly designed and manufactured. Consumers should be aware of the potential risks associated with any product, and manufacturers should take steps to ensure that their products are safe for consumers.

This incident should serve as a wake-up call for the furniture industry to review the safety of their products and ensure that they are doing everything possible to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. It is also a reminder for consumers to be vigilant about the products they purchase and to be aware of any potential safety risks.

The loss of Helen Davey is a tragedy that should not be forgotten. Her death is a reminder that product safety is a serious issue and that it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with any product. It is also a reminder that manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure that their products are safe for consumers.