CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The Kanawha County Commission is discussing how to prevent children from falling into grease traps in light of an incident earlier this month.
Commissioners want to see county health officials as well as a state law addressing such traps after a child fell into a grease trap at the Southridge Shopping Center on Nov. 11.
Five-year-old Kambria Cvechko fell into the grease trap outside of Las Trancas while playing; as she was running, she stepped on the plastic lid and fell inside.
Kambria’s mother, Kara, rescued her daughter with the assistance of two other children, who sat on the woman’s legs.
“She’s lucky and there are other kids that are lucky, but then there are kids that aren’t as lucky,” she said.
Kanawha County Commission President Kent Carper said the county health department should have the authority to address grease traps, including rigorous inspections.
“In the meantime, secure these very dangerous situations,” he said. “This is an unnecessary hazard that can cost a child their life.”
A 3-year-old child died in September after falling into a grease trap outside of a restaurant in Rochester, New York. Authorities tried to rescue the child but were unsuccessful.
“I actually called (the family) and sent my condolences,” Kara Cvechko said. “We have something in common, and I wanted her to know that this is not her fault. I know how easy it is for them to just go.”
The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department has approved a new rule requiring trap covers to be secure.