Nearly 300 victims die each year in UK fires, with nearly 8 000 injuries. Old age, smoking and heating devices are key factors. The UK Government statistical analysis 2011-2019 shows a reduction in fire deaths of over 50% since 1997 and a similar reduction in fire injuries. This report reminds that ongoing work is still needed to understand why thousands of people continue to die in fires each year. Statistics show that older people are more likely to die in fires, as well as other vulnerable people, and underlines the importance of alcohol, smoking and of fires caused by misused heating devices.
“An in-depth review of fire-related fatalities and severe casualties in England, 2010/11 to 2018/19” https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/an-in-depth-review-of-fire-related-fatalities-and-severe-casualties-in-england-2010-to-201819/an-in-depth-review-of-fire-related-fatalities-and-severe-casualties-in-england-201011-to-201819