JENA, LA – A terrifying incident in a Louisiana home has left a young boy with serious burns, prompting a stark warning for parents about electronic devices in bed.
Lauren Morrow awoke to the sound of her son Ashton’s cries for help. The nine-year-old had been asleep when his necklace became entangled with his tablet charger, causing it to ignite. The resulting fire left Ashton with burns on his neck and hand, a reminder of the dangers lurking in everyday habits.
The family quickly rushed Ashton to a local emergency room. He was later transferred to the LSU Ochsner Burn Unit in Shreveport for further treatment. Morrow, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed her gratitude that the situation wasn’t worse, acknowledging how close they came to a potential tragedy.
This incident is not isolated. Across the country, many people, including children, frequently sleep with their phones or tablets charging nearby. According to safety recommendations, such practices should be avoided to prevent similar accidents.
The National Fire Protection Association advises against charging devices under pillows, on beds, or in areas exposed to direct sunlight. They also recommend using only the battery and charging cord designed for each specific device to enhance safety.
For the Morrow family, these guidelines hit home. Lauren Morrow now advocates for stricter rules in her household, encouraging parents to ensure electronic devices are left in safer locations overnight.
Ashton, recovering but still in need of treatment, remains grateful for his parents’ swift actions that night. The family hopes their story will serve as a cautionary tale, urging others to reconsider their charging habits.
The incident has sparked a larger conversation about electronic safety, as families across the nation reassess the risks associated with common practices.