How Many Firefighters Die Each Year? (2024)

Learn how many firefighters die each year, explore trends in fatalities, and discover the importance of safety measures in protecting their lives.

August 27, 2024 Read in 2 mins

Data

Firefighter Deaths Per Year

To understand how many firefighters die each year, let's look at the past decade. In 2013, there were 110 fatalities, the highest in ten years. The numbers generally declined, reaching 65 in 2019. However, fatalities rose again, with 66 in 2020, 78 in 2021, and 88 in 2022. These figures show that while progress has been made, firefighting remains a high-risk job.

Firefighter Death Rate Analysis

The firefighter death rate reflects the proportion of firefighter fatalities relative to the total number of firefighters each year. According to the NFPA, there were an estimated 1,041,200 career and volunteer firefighters in the United States in 2020. With 66 deaths in 2020, the death rate was calculated to be approximately 1 death per 15,776 firefighters. Do you wonder what percent of firefighters die? In 2020, it was about 0.0063%. Although these figures indicate low risk, it's still important to continue improving safety protocols and support systems to further reduce the firefighter death rate.

What is the Leading Cause of Firefighter Fatalities?

The main cause of firefighter deaths is stress or overexertion, which led to 37 fatalities. This often includes heart attacks or other health issues that happen during or after tough physical work. Vehicle crashes are the second leading cause, with 17 deaths. Other causes include being hit by objects (10 deaths) and getting caught or trapped (8 deaths). These numbers show the physical demands and dangers firefighters face, highlighting the need for strong health, and safety measures, and proper training.

Top Firefighter Fatality Causes in 2022

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Source: USFA

Trends and Ongoing Challenges in Firefighter Safety

While the decline in firefighter fatalities from 2013 to 2019 shows the positive impact of better safety measures, training, and equipment, the recent increase in deaths highlights ongoing challenges. Improved protective gear, firefighting tactics, and awareness have helped save lives, but the rise in fatalities in the last few years suggests that more needs to be done. Fire departments are focusing more on health and wellness programs to reduce the risk of fatal incidents like heart attacks and strokes, but new risks and evolving dangers require continued efforts to protect firefighters.

Conclusion: Working Towards Zero Fatalities

While the number has generally decreased over the past decade, the profession remains dangerous, with 88 firefighter deaths per year in 2022 alone. Each of these deaths underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to improve safety for those who risk their lives to protect others. By continuing to focus on advancements in training, equipment, and health programs, we can work towards a future where no firefighter loses their life in the line of duty.