When the United States Fire Administration (USFA) recently revealed its topical fire report series on one- and two-family residential building fires, the statistics were alarming. For starters, an estimated 253,500 of these fires are reported each year, resulting in 2,150 deaths, 8,775 injuries and $5.3 billion in property loss. These fires don’t always make the headlines simply because they occur over a long period of time and throughout a widespread geographical area. But their overall devastation is enormous. In most years, the resulting loss of life surpasses that of U.S. natural disasters and terrorist actions combined.
The USFA report indicated that the number-one cause of fire is still cooking-related, and 91 percent of these are small, confined fires. Interestingly, 46 percent of the non-confined fires extend beyond the room of origin, with electrical malfunctions being the leading cause of these larger fires.
These statistics clearly identify the need for home fire safety inspections and family fire safety awareness. Fortunately, our listed NIFAST certified home fire safety inspectors are trained and ready to determine if your house is fire safe. As a family, you can also increase your fire safety profile by taking the NIFAST online residential course.
Terry Flanagan – NIFAST – Director of Education, Training and Certification
