Massachusetts reported a surge in fire-related deaths in 2023, prompting officials to emphasize the importance of smoke alarm maintenance. New data from the state's Department of Fire Services reveals 42 deaths, the highest number since 2017. Most fatalities occurred in homes, particularly among older adults, highlighting the need for regular smoke alarm checks.
This is an excerpt from WBUR's daily morning newsletter, WBUR Today. If you like what you read and want it in your inbox,in 2024 , according to new data released by the state’s Department of Fire Services. It’s the highest number of fire-related deaths since 2017. Eighty percent of those deaths occurred at home, predominantly in single-family homes, department spokesperson Jake Wark told WBUR’s Dan Guzman. And older adults made up about half of those killed.
Investigators found working smoke detectors in just 14 of the 42 residential fires they responded to last year, Wark said.
Fire Safety Smoke Alarms Massachusetts Fire Deaths Home Safety
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