3,675 people died in fires in the United States in 2005.  That’s one person every 143 minutes according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

            In 2005, public fire departments responded to 1.6 million fires, including 381,000 residential structure fires and 130,000 other structure fires.  82% of fire fatalities were in residential structure fires accounting for 74% of the total.  Fire departments responded to 259,000 highway vehicle fires and 31,000 other vehicle fires, which continued to be responsible for the second highest number of fire deaths across the country, estimated at 500 (14% of the total).  Outdoor fires, principally involving brush and rubbish, accounted for 801,000 fires in 2005.

            The NFPA also reports that 17,925 people, excluding firefighters, were injured by fire in the same year.

            The total dollar value of property damage in '05 was $10.6 billion, a dollar figure reflected in everyone’s insurance premium.

            There are steps we can take to reduce the tragically high numbers quoted in this report.

            -every home needs to have working smoke alarms and occupants must develop and practice escape plans.

            -we must have programs including legislation that requires residential sprinklers in our homes.

            -all manufacturers need to seek additional ways to make home products more fire safe.

            -better education in place to help our younger and older generations in the event of fire.

            Fires in the home are again the number one cause of fire deaths.   The Irmo Fire District has publications, programs and presentations that we can offer your group or business.  Contact us at 798-4979 to arrange for a visit or for answers on any fire and life safety matter.