USFA Releases Special School Fires Report
The U.S. Fire Administration has issued a special School Fires
report, developed by the National Fire Data Center, that explores the
causes and characteristics of school fires. As part of the Topical Fire
Research Series that is based on 2003-2005 National Fire Incident
Reporting System data, the report looks at all school fires, including
those occurring outdoors on school property, and compares such
characteristics with those of school structure fires
"This week marks the return of many students to schools across
this nation as well as the start of National Preparedness Month," said
USFA Administrator Greg Cade. "Fires in buildings as special as our
nation's schools are unacceptable. I ask all first responders to
encourage students, families, and school faculty members to take the
time to know exactly what they will do in the event of any type of
school emergency, including fire."
According to the report, the leading cause of school structure fires
is incendiary or suspicious activity (32%), followed by cooking (29%),
and heating (9%). Fires in preschool and day cares are predominantly
due to cooking, whereas incendiary or suspicious activity is the
leading cause of middle and high school structure fires. The three
leading areas of fire origin in school structure fires include
restrooms, kitchens, and general assembly areas.
To view the report, visit www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/tfrs/v8i1.pdf.