Coroner’s warning over helium balloons after boy, 5, died putting his head into one

A coroner has demanded action from the government following the death of a five-year-old boy who died six days after exposure to helium from a balloon.

Karlton Donaghey, 5, had been given a large dinosaur balloon as a treat at the Hoppings funfair in Newcastle-upon-Tyne days before his death in June 2022.

An inquest last month heard Karlton had been playing with the balloon in the garden before his mum Lisa found him unconscious in the living room 10 minutes later.

He was rushed to hospital but died six days later.

Lisa believes he tried to climb into the dinosaur balloon – which was ‘the same size as him’ – to wear as a costume to surprise his family.

Newcastle assistant coroner James Thompson has written to the government demanding action to prevent future deaths in similar circumstances.

At the time of the inquest, Mr Thompson described the tragedy as ‘every parent’s nightmare’.

Mr Thompson said in his report: ‘During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to concern.

‘In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you.

‘The matters of concern are as follows: the balloon which caused the death are freely available to purchase without restriction, particularly at locations of places of entertainment for children.

‘Parents and those responsible for supervision of children are not fully aware of the risks posed to young children of helium filled balloons.

‘The balloon in question displayed no warning as to the potential risk to young children.

‘In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe your organisation has the power to take such action.’

Mr Thompson said the Office for Product Safety and Standards at the Department for Business and Trade has until December 18 to respond to his report.

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