U.S. firefighter fatalities up in 1994
On-duty U.S. firefighter deaths rose almost 30 percent–to 100–during 1994, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Nearly 60 percent of the deaths occurred on the fireground. Entrapment caused 38 deaths, and stress (overexertion/strain resulting in heart attack or stroke) caused 33 deaths. Thirty-six firefighters perished in wildland fires, 14 in the South Canyon Fire (near Glenwood Springs, Colorado)–the deadliest wildland fire in more than 40 years. Wildland fatalities were higher in 1994 than for any of the other 18 years the NFPA study has been conducted.
The 1994 victims ranged in age from 17 to 68. Forty-two were career firefighters; 58 were volunteers.
For more information, contact the NFPA at 617-984-7469.
