U.S. Firefighter Deaths Hit Near-Record Low in 2024
New findings highlight progress in safety practices while underscoring persistent risks tied to overexertion and cardiac health.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Jun 13, 2025
A new report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) shows a significant drop in on-duty firefighter fatalities in the U.S. in 2024, with 62 deaths recorded—a 31% decrease from 2023 and tying for the fourth-lowest total since data collection began in 1977.
Of the 62 fatalities, 11 occurred within 24 hours of duty due to heart attacks or other medical conditions. The remaining 51 deaths took place while firefighters were actively on duty. Career firefighters accounted for 26 of those deaths, while 19 were volunteers. The rest included forestry service, industrial, and contractor firefighters.
The leading cause of death was overexertion or strain, responsible for 40 fatalities (65%). Of those, 30 were fatal heart attacks, making cardiac events the single most prevalent medical cause of firefighter deaths. Traumatic injuries accounted for 18 fatalities, while other causes included heat stroke, aneurysms, and electrocution.
Richard Campbell, senior research analyst at NFPA and lead author of the report, called the decline encouraging but emphasized that sudden cardiac events remain a critical issue. “There is a clear need for continuing attention to firefighter safety and health,” he said.
Most fatal injuries occurred while firefighters were operating at fires or explosions (32%), with others taking place during training, non-fire incidents, or routine station activities.
Jay Petrillo, NFPA research analyst and co-author, noted that while improvements in equipment, training, and communication have enhanced firefighter safety over the years, the diversity of hazards across various duties presents ongoing challenges.
The report was made possible with support from federal agencies, including the CDC’s NIOSH, the U.S. Fire Administration, and several branches of the Department of the Interior.
For more information, visit the NFPA press room.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.