Fatal Residential Fires

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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

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