An in-depth review of fire-related fatalities and severe casualties in England, 2010 to 2018/19
Analysis of Home Office data on fire incident, and fire investigation reports exploring circumstances surrounding fire fatalities.
Applies to England
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This report provides new evidence to ensure FRSs’ prevention activity and campaigns, such as Fire Kills, continue to target the right messages at the most vulnerable. Using data from the Home Office Incident Recording System (2010 to 2018/19), the research found the number of fire-related fatalities and severe casualties has decreased over time, however the rate of fatalities in fires has increased. Further, analysis of fire investigation reports found many of the fatal fires involved victims who had pre-existing physical, mental, or substance use related impairments. These impairments were often recorded as a factor in both the starting and outcome of a fire, including the victims’ ability to escape, even where a smoke alarm was present to raise alert.
Last updated 16 May 2023 + show all updates
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Section 4.2.2.1 has been updated to further clarify that the data described is regarding fatal fires rather than fatalities. Figures in Table 15 have been updated to accurately show the number fatal and severe casualty fires. Previously the table showed the number of fatalities and casualties.
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Clarification of the changes made to the state pension age between 2010 and 2018, which brought the state pension age for women into line with state pension age for men.
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First published.