Fatal Residential Fires

Abstract

THE UNITED STATES has one of the highest fire fatality rates in the developed world, accounting for 2.3 deaths per 100000 population.^1,2 In 1996 there were an estimated 417000 residential fires in the United States, resulting in 4035 deaths, almost 19000 injuries, and nearly $5 billion in property loss.³ There are striking regional differences in fire fatality within the United States, with the southeastern states experiencing the highest rates.^1,2,4 Most fatalities (75%) are associated with residential fires.² At high risk of fire death are the very young, older adults,^2,4-6 and those impaired by alcohol.^6,7 These groups are more vulnerable to fire fatality because they lack the capacity to take "mature, independent escape action."⁸