WHO ARE TODAY’S HOME FIRE VICTIMS? [INFOGRAPHIC]

The latest issue of NFPA’s Fire Sprinkler Initiative newsletter highlights the demographics of home fire victims. The report, Characteristics of Home Fire Victims by Marty Ahrens, analyzes trends from home fire losses and injuries by age, gender, race, and region based on data from local fire departments.

The report found that between 2007-2011:

• Home fires killed an estimated average of 2,570 people and resulted in an average of 13,210 reported civilian injuries (not including fire-fighters) per year
• 30% of home fire deaths were at least 65 years old
• Cooking equipment was the leading cause of home fire and injuries, while smoking was the leading cause of home fire deaths

To prevent these deaths and injuries, it is necessary to prevent fires in the first place. However, accidents happen –  installing home fire sprinklers can control the fire and reduce the risk of death. According to the Fire Sprinkler Initiative, 85% of all fire deaths occur in the home. But did you know the risk of dying DECREASES about 80% when sprinklers are present? 

Here’s an infographic summarizing some of the key findings from the report.