What is a Fire Hazard?
There are many types and causes of fires. Wildfires, arson, accidental fires and others all pose a unique danger to communities and individuals. America’s fire death rate is one of the highest per capita in the industrialized world.
Fire kills over 4,000 and injures more than 23,000 people each year. Firefighters pay a high price for this terrible fire record as well; approximately 100 firefighters die in the line of duty each year. Direct property losses due to fire exceed $8.5 billion a year. Most of these deaths and losses can be prevented! However, America’s fire losses today represent a dramatic improvement from nearly 30 years ago. In 1971, this Nation lost more than 12,000 citizens and 250 firefighters to fire. This is clear evidence that mitigation and fire prevention efforts are successful.
Wildfire FEMA U.S. Fire Administration NOAA Fire Weather Center
