An American-born couple died after an electric blanket designed for US power outlets was used on Australia’s higher-voltage grid, sparking a fire that destroyed their northern Tasmanian home.
Gregory Burkhalter, 73, died at his Sidmouth home on May 26, 2024.
His wife, Diane Burkhalter, 74, died in hospital 10 days later.
Tasmanian coroner Olivia McTaggart found both deaths were accidental.
A fire investigation found an electric blanket on Mrs Burkhalter’s bed was rated for 120 volts but was being used on Australia’s 230-volt system – almost double its intended capacity.
The excessive voltage caused the blanket’s insulation to fail.
Investigators said heat from the blanket and two electric cat beds contributed to the failure, igniting nearby bedding.
Mrs Burkhalter woke to smoke about 8am and attempted to move one of the smouldering cat beds.
Coroner McTaggart said lifting the bed introduced oxygen, causing it to ignite and the fire to spread rapidly through the house.
The investigation found Mrs Burkhalter had placed the heated cat beds at her feet for warmth.
Medical records showed she had untreated, painful conditions affecting her right ankle and foot.
Unable to reach a phone, she fled the house and tried to drive for help but crashed into a tree at low speed on the steep driveway.
Firefighters from Beaconsfield arrived at 8:26am and found her near the vehicle with severe burns.
Mr Burkhalter was later found dead on the bedroom floor after several hours of firefighting.
Coroner McTaggart said it was reasonable to infer he had attempted to escape but was overcome by carbon monoxide.
Mrs Burkhalter was taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital and suffered a heart attack in transit.
Despite undergoing heart surgery and skin grafts, her injuries were too severe.
Treatment was stopped on June 5, 2024, following consultation with her family.
The investigation found no evidence of a working smoke alarm in the home.
Coroner McTaggart said the deaths highlighted “critical matters”, including the legal requirement for smoke alarms and the dangers of using appliances designed for different voltages.
“The tragic accidental deaths of Mr and Mrs Burkhalter arose from an unusual set of circumstances,” she said.
