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Fires in the News archives
San Francisco Chronicle (11/2/07)
Two officers praised for rescue in fire
Two Fremont (CA) police officers are being honored after rushing into a burning building to save a woman's life. The two officers, veterans on the force, both suffered smoke inhalation after rescuing an unconscious woman and two other people from a burning 20-unit apartment building in Fremont.
Authorities identify victims in Omaha apartment fire
This article reports on an apartment fire in Omaha, Nebraska. One man was killed, and three others were treated for smoke inhalation.
Smoke, fumes killed students: Medical examiner's ruling
offers comfort to those 'struggling with the way they died'
South Carolina's The State writes that the official cause of death of the seven college students who died in a beach house fire Sunday night was from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning. According to the state's chief medical examiner, the students were killed before the flames reached them.
Smoke, carbon monoxide killed students
The Associated Press ran a story on the seven students who died in a North Carolina beach house fire last weekend. The article reports that the state's chief medical examiner reported that the students died from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Is your smoke detector working?
This article reports on an experiment conducted by Owens Community College's Center for Emergency Preparedness on the sensitivity of smoke alarms. The article, which discusses the trigger points of the alarms and the amount of time the alarms allow for victims to escape, mentions hydrogen cyanide.
Chicago Suburban News (10/31/07)
Chicago Suburban News reports that a large fire destroyed two townhouses in Darien, IL yesterday. It took about 50 firefighters to control the fire that injured one man and sent a police officer to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
San Diego Union Tribune (10/29/07)
Hawaii County 'aggressively' investigating wildfires
Fire officials were able to get a large wildfire under control that had burned more than 2,100 acres of brush land along the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. Though the fire fighters controlled the blazes, several firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation.
School coach catches fire on M5
A bus carrying 42 school children caught fire yesterday while traveling to Okehampton, England. The bus fire required four fire engines to control the fire. No one was seriously injured, but some of the pupils suffered smoke inhalation and four are being monitored.
4 Killed in Riyadh Apartment Fire
Four members of an Egyptian family died when a fire broke out at their house in the Umm Al-Hamam district of Riyadh on Oct. 29. According to Civil Defense spokesman Capt. Abdullah Al-Naqqadi, the family died of suffocation, and he urged citizens and residents to take necessary precautions such as installing smoke detectors at homes. He also warned of the consequences of smoke inhalation, which can kill people within four minutes.
FireFightingNews.com (10/30/07)
Theme Park Cable Car Blaze Probe
FireFightingNews.com (UK) reports that a fire burned a cable car at a theme park in Staffordshire, England on Oct. 29. Visitors to the park were evacuated when the fire began, and approximately 50 firefighters fought the blaze. One security guard suffered from smoke inhalation and was treated on the scene.
Blaze destroys hotel, kills 1 person
The Billings Gazette reports that a fire broke out early Saturday morning in a Wyoming Super-8 Motel. It is estimated that the 36-room hotel held 50 occupants at the time of the fire. The cause of the fire is still unknown; however, one person was killed as a result.
Seven Dead In Fire At Beach Home Filled With S.C. Students
Live 5 News reports that a fire burned a South Carolina beach house that was occupied by students from two South Carolina colleges. The fire started early Sunday morning, leaving seven people dead and another six hospitalized.
Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier (10/26/07)
Explosion injures employees at pharmaceutical plant in Charles City
Authorities are investigating an explosion at a chemical and pharmaceutical company that occurred early today in Charles City, IA, injuring six people. Cambrex Charles City makes pharmaceutical ingredients and bulk pharmaceutical intermediates and employs nearly 200 people. Five of their employees were treated for smoke inhalation, and one person remains hospitalized for burns as a result of the fire.
Nearly 50 firefighters were battling a fire that broke out around 2:45 a.m. today in a three-story building with 36 units in Denver, Colorado. The fire caused extensive damage to the apartment buildings, and firefighters are battling to keep it from spreading, as about 18 units have been damaged and three people were sent to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
Higher death rate from smoke unlikely
This article reports that experts comment that the smoke from California's wildfires is unlikely to markedly boost respiratory death rates. Evidence comes from studies conducted during the Southern California wildfires in 2003 and the Hayman fire in southwest Denver in 2002. In both cases, researchers seized the opportunity to document the short-term health impact of smoke billowing from wildfires into heavily populated urban areas. What damage smoke inhalation does over the long-term is harder to measure.
Estes Park Trail Gazette (10/24/07)
This article reports that two firefighters suffered from smoke inhalation after fighting a blaze Saturday in Fall River, CO. The firefighters were treated on the scene.
Local Red Cross Volunteers to help fire victims
This article reports that volunteers with the Sioux Red Cross are ready to help victims of the Southern California wildfires. One volunteer mentions that she knows there will be a lot of smoke inhalation.
Safe Kids presents smoke detectors
Safe Kids Blair County, whose lead agency is Altoona Regional Health System, provided a new smoke detector to families who welcomed a newborn into their home during Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 7-13, to help reduce the risk of fire injury in Blair County.
Kitchener-Waterloo Record (10/23/07)
"Everywhere I looked was red, glowing"
California wildfires force more than 250,000 to evacuate
The Kitchener-Waterloo Record picked up an article by the Associated Press highlighted in 10/23/07's monitoring report. The article details the wildfires in Southern California and reports that more than a dozen people were hospitalized with burns and smoke inhalation, including four firefighters, three of whom were listed in critical condition. Similar stories were reported by The Oakland Tribune; Times Union; Charleston Gazette; Pittsburgh Tribune-Review; Ventura County Star; Herald-Sun; and, Townsville Bulletin.
Health officials warn of unhealthy air caused by SoCal fires
This article reports that public health officials urged the elderly and people with breathing problems to stay indoors due to the smoke and falling ash. The article details that five of the sixteen patients treated for burns at the University of California San Diego Medical Center were also treated for smoke inhalation. A similar article was reported by the San Jose Mercury News.
State health department issues alert regarding smoke
This article reports that the California Department of Public Health issued an alert stating that the smoky conditions can be hazardous for young children, the elderly, individuals with heart conditions and individuals with respiratory ailments such as asthma, emphysema and bronchitis. Dr. David Frankle of Malibu Urgent Care treated two Pepperdine employees for smoke inhalation.
City of Orlando, FL (10/23/07)
Orlando Fire Department installs smoke alarms to save lives
In recognition of National Fire Prevention Month, the Orlando Fire Department will install smoke alarms in homes without a working alarm in the Palomar area of College Park, FL on October 23 and 24.
October marks Fire Prevention Month
This article reports that local fire officials of Floyd and Clark counties, IN have stepped up their efforts in October in recognition of Fire Prevention Month to keep residents safe by providing educational information about how best to prevent home fires. Fire kills more people than all other natural disasters—3,245 fire-related civilian deaths reported nationwide in 2006, where 81percent of civilian fire deaths happen in residences, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
The West Australian (10/23/07)
Investigators probe factory fire
This article reports that investigators will work to establish the cause of the Actron Air factory fire in East Victoria Park, Australia, where two employees were treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns.
Austin Daily Herald (10/22/07)
Fire safety for senior citizens
This article reports that older adults (age 65 and older) suffer twice as many fire deaths as the general population, and people 85 and older are four times more likely to die in a fire than members of other age groups.
Quarter-million people urged to flee as wildfires menace Southern California
This article reports on the wildfires in Southern California that have forced more than 250,000 people to evacuate in San Diego County alone. One person died in one of the fires near San Diego. More than a dozen people were hospitalized with burns and smoke inhalation, including four firefighters, three of whom were listed in critical condition, officials said.
Fire kills 8 teenagers at reform school in Chile
This article reports that eight teens died from smoke inhalation due to a fire that broke out during a riot at a reform school in the southern Chilean city of Puerto Montt. Several other students were treated for smoke inhalation.
Herald Democrat Online (10/21/07)
Choctaw fire
This article reports that a fire broke out at a monster truck rally at the Choctaw Coliseum in Durant, Texas, on Oct. 20. EMS and firefighters were dispatched to the scene and were asked to bring extra oxygen. Several attendees were transported to the hospitals, while others were treated on the scene with oxygen.
Bin fire "was started deliberately"
This article reports that more than 20 people were evacuated from a burning block of 12 three-story flats in Pontypool (United Kingdom) on Oct. 19. Although there were no serious casualties, several residents suffered from smoke inhalation, including a pregnant woman and her two young children.
Coroner's Report Released In Deadly Fire
Live 5 News (Charleston, South Carolina) reports on new details released about how and where the nine Charleston firefighters were found after the deadly Sofa Super Store fire. The report says all of the firemen but one died from carbon monoxide poisoning. The ninth firefighter died of smoke inhalation.
International Herald Tribune (10/18/07)
Fire destroys U.N. refugee agency warehouse in Syria
A fire that burned a warehouse run by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees near Damascus destroyed relief supplies, including more than 5,000 tents. The fire also spread to nearby UNHCR offices that are used for conducting interviews with Iraqi refugees in Syria. The UNHCR reported that some of the refugees suffered from smoke inhalation due to the fire. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
1 Crew Member Injured in Letterman Fire
A crew member of "The Late Show with David Letterman" was briefly hospitalized for smoke inhalation after a small electrical fire broke out in the building that houses the Ed Sullivan Theater where the show is taped. According to CBS, one crew member was taken to a hospital as a precaution, but then released.
Arizona Daily Star, (10/18/07)
Blazes causes $20,000 in damage
The Arizona Daily Star reports on a two-alarm fire that broke out in an apartment complex Thursday night. The fire caused approximately $20,000 in damage and sent one woman to the hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.
Cootamundra Herald, Australia (10/17/07)
A fire broke out at the Southern Cross Care facility in Cootamundra, Australia, burning an entire residence in the senior care home. Thirty-one people were evacuated, and residents were checked on scene for signs of shock and smoke inhalation but no injuries were reported.
4 girls, 2 moms injured in house fire, tragedy strikes in Pataskala,
1 child still 'critical' after blaze strikes just after midnight
This article reports that four children and two adults were hurt in a house fire in Pataskala, OH. The article explains that two of the children and the two adults were unconscious and suffering from smoke inhalation at the time they were pulled from the fire by firefighters.
Australian Broadcasting Corporation (10/12/07)
Firefighter comatose after factory blaze
This news segment reports that a firefighter remains in a comma after being injured fighting a fire that broke out in a furniture factory in Yarraville (Australia). The segment reports that six people from nearby buildings were taken to a hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
A fire on the south side of Sheboygan, WI injured two people, one of whom was rescued unconscious from the burning home. Two Sheboygan police officers tried to enter the residence, but were driven back by smoke. The resident of the home was sent to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. Investigators concluded that the fire appears to have been started by a discarded cigarette.
Daly City: Police officers rescue two in house fire that displaces seven
A fire broke out on the second floor of a single-family residence in Daly City, CA where two residents suffered smoke inhalation and were treated at the scene. The fire, which firefighters had under control in about fifteen minutes, displaced seven residents including five adults and two children.
Six injured in Providence tenement fire on Blaine Street
A fire broke out in the north end of Providence, RI yesterday, displacing 20 residents and injuring six others. Six rescue trucks were deployed to fight the fire. Two unidentified tenants were affected by smoke inhalation or the heat and were taken to the hospital.
San Mateo County Times (10/4/07)
Two-alarm fires hit San Mateo County; Damages estimated at $385,000
The San Mateo County Times reports that firefighters in both north and south San Mateo County, CA fought separate two-alarm fires Wednesday. The first fire destroyed at least five vehicles and a carport and damaged nearby buildings. The second two-alarm fire that broke out Wednesday afternoon caused an estimated $125,000 in damage to a two-story single-family home and left one woman suffering from second-degree burns to her hands and smoke inhalation.
International Herald Tribune (10/2/07)
7 killed, dozens injured in fire at Moscow university
Russian emergency officials reported on a fire Tuesday afternoon that killed at least seven people and injured more than two dozen. The fire, which burned the Moscow State Institute of State and Corporate Management, forced some students and teachers to climb onto tree branches or jump four or five stories into firefighting rescue nets below. Russia records nearly 18,000 fire deaths a year — several times the per-capita rate of the United States and other Western countries.
The Orange County Register (10/1/07)
Apartment fire displaces 27, Costa Mesa apartment gutted;
landlord to penalize 9 residents
This article reports that 40 firefighters responded to a fire in an apartment building in Costa Mesa (CA) Sunday morning. The fire displaced 27 people and sent a child to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
This article reports that at least 70 firefighters from Santa Clara and San Jose (CA) fought a four-alarm fire at ECS Refining in Santa Clara. Two firefighters and two local business people were sent to hospitals for treatment for smoke inhalation.
Newsday (9/26/07)
11 injured in Glen Cove blaze
Eleven firefighters were injured fighting a blaze in Glen Cove, NY yesterday. The injured firefighters were taken to area hospitals, where they were treated and released for injuries that included smoke inhalation and chest pains.
New Haven Register (9/25/07)
New Firefighting Tool
Sixty firefighters from across the nation are gathering in Hamden, CT Thursday to participate in a cutting-edge experiment that will test a new piece of rescue equipment, as well as the gases firefighters inhale when they run out of air. The firefighters will test the Last Chance Rescue Filter, a Thermos-looking canister that attaches to an air mask to provide 15 minutes of oxygen to a firefighter who is trying to escape a fire and is facing an "out-of-air emergency." The canister filters out gases firefighters encounter and changes carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide. During the test, Yale School of Medicine will monitor the oxygen, carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide levels in the environment. The meter readings and the data are expected to be published by Dr. David C. Cone and the National Fire Protection Association. Fire Engineering Magazine will be filming and reporting on the exercise. George, a veteran firefighter from New Haven, comments in the article that carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide kills firefighters.
Boston Herald (9/25/07)
Dorchester apartment fire displaces 11
A fire on Melbourne Street in Boston, MA displaced 11 people after it burned a six-family apartment building. The two-alarm fire was fought by about 60 Boston-area firefighters.
A fire in the Saudi capital's Al-Faisaliah district killed 10 members of a Saudi family. Civil Defense spokesman Capt. Abdullah Al-Qafari reported that the fire broke out in a guest room where furniture caught fire. The fire quickly spread, sending three additional people to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation, as the smoke from the burning of furniture stuffing can be lethal
Ashbury Park Press (9/21/07)
No Lives Lost: Several hundred tenants flee from apartment tower fire
A fire early Thursday morning burned a large apartment building and sent seven firefighters to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
Houston Chronicle (9/18/07)
FATAL FIRE: Fire kills woman, guts homes, apartments
More than 120 firefighters responded to a four-alarm fire in Dallas, TX that killed a woman and destroyed two large homes and several garage apartments on Monday evening. This is the 13th residential fire death in Houston this year. According to Houston Fire Department statistics, in 2006 there were 13 residential fire deaths in the city as of Sept. 22, and 17 total for the year.
Fire on Navy cruiser in shipyard sends five to hospital
Five civilian contractors were sent to the hospital after a two-alarm fire broke out aboard the ship they were working on. More than 300 workers were on board when a flash fire and a series of smaller fires broke out, sending five men to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and other injuries. When asked how a small fire such as this could cause so much damage, Norfolk Fire Battalion Chief Bruce Evans said, "You have limited space to move in. You're in an enclosed space. There are no windows to take out to let fresh air in and get the smoke (out)."
Las Vegas Sun (9/17/07)
Baby among six hurt in two-alarm fire at Las Vegas apartment complex
A two-alarm blaze sent six people, including a baby, to the hospital when a fire burned a Las Vegas apartment. Most of the people were treated for smoke inhalation.
BBC News (9/17/07)
Thai crash survivors recall chaos
This article reports on the airplane crash in Phuket, Thailand. The article describes large amounts of smoke and flames and details that a passenger was treated for smoke inhalation.
New York Daily News (9/17/07)
Fire erupts on roof of upper east side townhouse
This article reports on fire fighters who were treated for smoke inhalation after battling a townhouse fire in New York City.
Plattsburgh Press Republican (9/13/07)
Fire deaths caused by smoke inhalation, carbon monoxide
A woman and her young son died of smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning after a fire engulfed their Lyon Mountain, NY home. Clinton County Coroner David Donah said he expected official autopsy findings in two to three weeks. There is no mention of cyanide poisoning.
San Mateo Daily Journal (9/12/07)
Fire strikes SSF apartments
The San Mateo Daily Journal reports on a three-alarm fire that damaged a 36-unit apartment complex in South San Francisco, CA yesterday. Local fire departments from San Francisco and the surrounding area responded to the fire that left 50 people homeless and five others suffering from smoke inhalation. Three people with smoke inhalation were treated on the scene, and the other two were taken to be treated at local hospitals. Please note that KTVU also ran this story.
The Insurance Journal reports that the number of fires increased by about 3 percent from 2005 to 2006, while fire deaths fell 12 percent and fire injuries were down by 8 percent. The total number of people who died in fires (excluding firefighters) in 2006 is the lowest number recorded since National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) began collecting data in 1977; however, property loss from fires in 2006 was roughly $11 billion, an increase of 6 percent from 2005.
Bedford Today (9/11/07)
Now firefighters specialize in trauma care
A specialist trauma care course has been introduced to firefighters in Bedford (England) to better prepare them for the injuries they encounter from fires, car accidents and other emergencies. The course includes learning the use of defibrillators to help victims of fire or accidents, equipment for resuscitation, and delivering life-saving oxygen to those suffering from smoke inhalation or traumatic injuries.
Dubai City Guide.com (9/9/07)
EHS Fire Department Controls Early Morning Fire In Jebel Ali
The Environment, Health and Safety regulatory arm of Dubai World announced that a fire broke out in the facilities of Prime Tech ME, a flexible packaging material manufacturer and exporter. Six firefighting units and two ambulances were rushed to the scene, but no injuries were reported.
The Standard Speaker (9/9/07)
Nursing home residents evacuated after fire
The Standard Speaker reports that 21 people in Sugarloaf Township, PA, were evacuated from a nursing home in response to a small fire that broke out Sunday evening. Two people were taken to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
Newsquest Media Group Newspapers (9/9/07)
People trapped in arson attack
A number of apartments in Chipping Norton (United Kingdom) were evacuated after a fire broke out and filled the homes with smoke reports. Some residents suffered from smoke inhalation, and the fire is being treated as arson.
Bangkok Post (9/8/07)
Editorial: Fire safety still a burning issue
The Bangkok Post discusses the need for better fire safety in Bangkok Hotels. The editorial comes in response to a Wednesday night fire that sent 16 people to the hospital. Those sent to the hospital had to be treated for smoke inhalation, and another 400 had to be moved to safety from the burning hotel. The article cites lack of water sprinklers, smoke detectors and fire alarms, among others, as reasons that hotel fires have proven to be so disastrous in Bangkok.
This article focuses on a report by the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services inspector general on the efficacy of the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation Program. The article states that the report cites a lack of resources and oversight for the fire safety program and that U.S. Senator John Kerry will seek greater funding for the program and stronger congressional oversight. An increase in resources for the fire safety program could lead to improved knowledge about why fire fighters are killed or injured, and it presents a potential opportunity to educate parties that investigate fire fighter deaths about the need for cyanide poisoning from smoke inhalation to be on their "checklist" during investigations. Senator Kerry requested the inspector general's report in response to an MSNBC.com story last February revealing that 15 fire fighters have died since 1998 in fires where fire fighter motion sensors were defective. Nine of the deaths came after managers at the CDC blocked an investigation by their own fire safety engineer into possible equipment failure. It was not until 2005 that the CDC took action by testing the alarms. The report provides four recommendations to improve the Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation Program:
- The CDC should have specific guidelines for performance.
- The CDC should investigate equipment problems and other issues more quickly.
- The CDC should consider seeking increased authority from Congress to insist upon the cooperation of parties that are resistant to investigations .
- The CDC should make its findings/recommendations publicly known more quickly, particular in cases of possible equipment problems .
The article also references the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) recommendations to improve the Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program.
Chicago Daily Herald (9/7/07)
Huntley lifts fire sprinkler requirement
The Huntley, Illinois, village board voted to lift a two-year-old requirement mandating fire sprinklers in all new single-family homes, despite strong opposition from the Huntley Fire Protection District. Firefighters cite that sprinklers are "the most effective tool in reducing fire deaths." Sprinklers remain mandatory in townhouses, multifamily residences and commercial buildings.
ABC12 (9/6/07)
Family still trying to move on after terrible fire
This article provides follow-up coverage on a May 2007 Saginaw, Michigan, house fire in which five children and their stepfather died from smoke inhalation. The article details that while some claim the fire was "not just an accident," the family would like to stop these rumors so that they can move on.
BBC News (9/6/07)
Eight people hurt in flats fire
This article reports that six firefighters and two other people were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out in a flat in Dunmurry, on the outskirts of Belfast.
Hornsey and Crouch End Journal (9/6/07)
Five saved in blaze rescue
This article reports on a fire that broke out in the center of Crouch End in the UK. Four people—a baby boy, two women and a man—were taken to the hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.
Associated Press (9/5/07)
Bangkok hotel where fire injured 16 guests had no water sprinkler system
This article reports on a large fire at a popular Bangkok hotel, the Mandarin Hotel. Sixteen people suffered from smoke inhalation and were hospitalized.
Chicago Tribune (9/5/07)
Infant taken to hospital after building catches fire
This article reports that some residents of a three-story apartment building that caught fire on Tuesday were treated for smoke inhalation.
Western Daily Press (9/3/07)
50 firefighters battle blaze at Co-op
This article reports that nearly 50 fire fighters fought a fire at a supermarket in Dorset (UK) and that some nearby residents were treated for smoke inhalation.
Boston Globe (8/30/07)
2 Firefighters Die, 10 Hurt in Blaze
Two veteran firefighters were killed, and another 10 were injured when a fire burned a Chinese restaurant last night in the West Roxbury area of Boston, MA. Sources say more than 100 firefighters responded to the four-alarm fire, the cause of which is still under investigation. The article reports that Fire Chief Kevin MacCurtain said that the first group of fire fighters who responded to the blaze quickly became trapped in the building and disoriented by the intense heat and smoke, but these individuals were rescued by other fire fighters. Please note that this story also ran in a number of other outlets, including Forbes.com, FOXnews.com, CBNnews.com (Christian Broadcasting Network), the Boston Herald, the Houston Chronicle and the Guardian Unlimited (UK).
Asbury Park Press (8/28/07)
UPDATE: Four treated for smoke inhalation at Lakewood fire
Four people were treated for smoke inhalation from a fire that started in an industrial park in Lakewood, NJ. The victims of smoke inhalation included an employee of the Permacel building, two police officers and a fire fighter.
Mail & Guardian (08/28/2007)
Woman, baby boy die in Jo'burg high-rise fire
This article reports on a large structure fire in Johannesburg, South Africa. During the fire, two people died from severe smoke inhalation, while seven others were treated for smoke inhalation.
ENP Newswire (08/28/2007)
SKRM Interactive to Produce High-Casualty Pre-Deployed Emergency Response Unit
This press release reports that Sector 10 Services USA, Inc. has put in production an expanded version of its Stationary Response Unit (SRU) to meet market demand. The release states that the SRU is intended to be pre-deployed in high traffic public areas, providing sufficient equipment to save 200 people from smoke inhalation or bio-chemical threats.
Associated Press (8/27/07)
UPDATE: 10 Culver cadets treated for smoke inhalation in barracks fire
This article reports that 10 high school cadets at the Culver Academies (Culver, IN) were treated for smoke inhalation suffered during a barracks fire. The fire began after a cadet put a cloth or towel over a lamp to keep the light down while studying. The cadet then fell asleep, and the cloth caught fire.
Platts Commodity News(08/27/2007)
BHP restarts Olympic Dam copper smelter after electrical incident
This article reports that BHP Billiton has re-started operations at its Olympic Dam copper smelter in South Australia. The smelter had been shut down after an electrical incident resulted in six employees requiring treatment for smoke inhalation.
International Herald Tribune (8/24/07)
25 Brazil inmates killed in fire, showing gang power
The Tribune reports that inmates took control of a prison in San Paulo and torched it while locking in inmates from rival gangs. The prisoners set fire to mattresses and caused a fire that killed at least 25 prisoners. Authorities are unsure whether the inmates died from burns or smoke inhalation.
PR Newswire (8/24/07)
Four crew abandon fishing vessel after fire breaks out
The Irish coast guard reports that a fishing vessel caught fire early this morning. The ship's four crew members were rescued after sending out a distress signal and were reportedly suffering from smoke inhalation.
USA Today (8/22/07)
Students get firm warning on fire danger; new report cites on-campus stats
This article follows up on the National Fire Protection Association data, which estimated that the number of fires in campus housing rose from 1,800 fires in 1998 to 3,300 fires in 2005. From 2000 through 2005 there were 39 deaths and nearly 400 injuries. This article states, however, that these estimates do not include off-campus fires, which USA Today reported last year were the most deadly.
Wilton Bulletin (8/22/07)
Wilton Firefighters: Obey Emergency Sirens, Smoke more deadly than fire
This article reports that the Wilton Fire Department warns that smoke is the real killer in a fire. About eight of every 10 fire deaths are due to breathing poisonous smoke and gases. The article mentions that carbon monoxide, in particular, is highly toxic, but does not mention cyanide. The article also details that most people have a natural fear of fires and burns, but feel relatively safe in smoke.
Jackson Sun (8/21/07)
Blaze causes damage at Southern Source
Firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire at Southern Source, an industrial packing facility, in Tennessee.
Associated Press (8/21/07)
Rituals of sadness repeat at firehouse
This article reports that the deaths of the two firefighters that battled the blaze in downtown New York City were caused by smoke inhalation. The article discusses the great losses the firehouse, to which the firefighters belonged, has experienced. The firehouse house lost 11 men on Sept. 11th, the most of any firehouse in the city. Similar stories were reported by Fort Worth Star Telegram, TX ; Kansas City Star, MO; KOB.com, NM; San Diego Union Tribune, United States; Kentucky.com, KY; FireRescue1, CA; NY1, NY; FireFighting News.com; 7Online.com, NY; Forbes, NY; Tuscaloosa News (subscription), AL; Modesto Bee, CA; Guardian Unlimited, UK; News Channel 7, SC ; Ottawa Recorder, Canada; Philadelphia Inquirer, PA; Centre Daily Times, PA; Los Angeles Times, CA; Newsday, NY; Meadow Free Press, ID; and WNYT, NY.
WCBS-TV (8/21/07)
Firefighters seek answers in deadly Deutsche Bank blaze
This article discussed the growing questions around the decisions and conditions that killed two firefighters at the former Deutsche Bank fire in New York City. Many wonder how the two victims ran out of air, succumbing to smoke inhalation which caused cardiac arrest. Similar stories were reported by NY1, NY ; KTAR.com, AZ ; TheNewsTribune.com (subscription), WA; News Channel 7, SC; and Gothamist, NY.
WJZ (8/21/07)
College dorm fires on the rise
According to National Fire Protection Association data, the estimated number of fires in campus housing rose from 1,800 fires in 1998 to 3,300 fires in 2005. From 2000 through 2005, there were 39 deaths and nearly 400 injuries. Fires in college housing are more common during the evening and weekends when students are in their residences. Many of the fires are cooking-related, but the majority of fire deaths occur in the bedroom.
Associated Press (8/20/07)
Faulty water system blamed for NYC fire
This article reports on the fire that consumed the abandoned skyscraper, the former Deutsche Bank near Ground Zero, where two firefighters died last weekend. The building was reported to be a "toxic wasteland," since it was damaged the morning of Sept. 11, 2001. While the cause of the blaze is still undetermined, the water supply system in the building was "not operational." The article also discussed the growing controversy over the decision to send fire fighters into a building where lives and property were not at risk.
Central News Agency (8/20/07)
Premier orders quick probe into CAL plane engine blast
This article reports that two crew members were rushed to the hospital for smoke inhalation treatment after the explosion of a left engine of a Taiwan-based China Airlines passenger jet. The explosion occurred at Naha Airport on the Japanese island of Okinawa.
The News Journal (8/19/07)
Kitchen fire sends 8 to hospital
This article reports that a kitchen fire near Glasgow, DE sent eight people to the hospital with minor injuries from smoke inhalation.
The Sunday Mirror (8/19/07)
Jump or die
This article reports that three people were taken to Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro in the UK following a resort fire. Five guests were feared to have died in the fire, which was thought to have been started by a burglar.
Associated Press (8/18/07)
Skyscraper Burns Near Ground Zero
This article reports on a fire that broke out in the former Deutsche Bank office near Ground Zero in New York City. The article details that five or six firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation. Other similar articles report that two firefighters died from smoke inhalation and cardiac arrest. There are concerns regarding air quality around the site. Both Associated Press articles are attached. Similar stories were reported by US Fed News ; Agence France Presse; Winnipeg Free Press; Newsday; Dow Jones International News; Calgary Herald; Ottawa Citizen; New York Daily News; Houston Chronicle, Los Angeles Times; NY1, NY; CIOB International News, UK; Gothamist, NY ; amNewYork, NY; News 10 Now, NY; CBS2 Chicago, IL; CBS 4, FL; News 10NBC, NY; KRIS-TV, TX ; KOIN.com, OR; WLNS, MI ; ABC30.com, CA; WHO-TV, IA; WHDH-TV, MA; and WIVB, NY.
News 8 WMTW (8/17/07)
Fire destroys auto salvage yard
This article reports that several firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion and minor smoke inhalation at the scene of a fire at an auto salvage yard in Maine on Thursday.
Dow Jones International News (8/17/2007)
Update: BHP Billiton says smelter closure won't cut output
This article reports that BHP Billiton Ltd. said on Friday that it does not expect the closure of the copper smelter at its Olympic Dam mine in South Australia to result in loss of production. The smelter was evacuated Thursday afternoon, and six workers were treated for smoke in halation after water entered the electric furnace.
Newsquest Media Group Newspapers (8/16/2007)
Trio rescued from fire
This article reports that firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a ladder to rescue three people from a burning apartment complex. A 67-year-old woman was taken to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital suffering from smoke inhalation and 20 percent burns, and two men were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene.
WCBS-TV (8/16/07)
Several injured in five-alarm Union City fire
This article reports that six firefighters were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation as a result of fighting a three-story apartment and commercial building fire in Union City, N.J. A similar article was published by the Associated Press, which was picked up by the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Laurel Leader-Call (8/16/2007)
Burn center should be major campaign issue
This article asserts that voters should ask candidates for governor, lieutenant governor and legislative seats if they will provide funding for a burn center at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The article states that Mississippi ranks first in the nation in the rate of fire-related deaths at 4.12 per 100,000 state residents, and details that with the highest rate of fire-related deaths in the nation comes an extremely high rate of exposing firefighters to smoke inhalation at best and life-threatening burn injuries at worst.
WCAX (8/16/2007)
Early morning blaze claims boy's life
Several firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation after a house fire early Thursday morning in northern New York. A young boy died on his way to the hospital, as a result of the fire. The story was also picked up by WNNE-TV (VT).
Dunya (8/16/2007)
Forest fire in Aegean destroys 350 hectares
This article reports that 17 people injured in a fire in western Turkey on Thursday were all treated for smoke inhalation at nearby hospitals.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (8/16/2007)
EMS given masks for aiding pets with smoke inhalation in McKeesport
This article reports that the McKeesport Joint Task Force donated to the McKeesport Ambulance Rescue Service three different-sized surgical oxygen masks for pets that suffer from smoke inhalation due to fires.
Halifax Today (8/15/2007)
Fewer die in blaze tragedies
This article reports that the UK's West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service campaign to cut the number of preventable deaths and injuries continues to exceed national trends. There were only 11 preventable domestic fire-related deaths across West Yorkshire in the 12 months to March 31 – below a target of 18. National fire statistics, covering the 12 months to September 30, 2006, show home-fire deaths fell by 9 percent to 342, the lowest since records began.
WMDT (8/15/2007)
Firefighters battle 2-alarm blaze at apartment complex
This article reports that at least three firefighters were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation and minor burns after battling a fire in an apartment complex in Maryland.
The San Francisco Chronicle (8/15/2007)
Apartment fire sends 7 to the hospital
Seven people were taken to San Francisco General Hospital for smoke inhalation, while others were treated on the scene for smoke inhalation after a three-alarm fire broke out in a three-story apartment building in San Francisco's Eureka Valley.
Patriot News (8/14/2007)
Blaze sweeps 5 homes, leaves 10 homeless; Properties were due to be demolished for planned bridge
This article reports that several residents received minor injuries that were caused by smoke inhalation from a fire that damaged five homes in Lebanon, PA.
PR Newswire (8/14/2007)
Million Dollar Grant Awarded to the People's Burn Foundation; Funding to continue live-saving firefighter training programs nationwide and development of college campus safety initiatives
The People's Burn Foundation issued a press release announcing that the organization is the recipient of a one-million dollar "Assistance to Firefighters – Fire Prevenntion and Safety Program" grant from the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security. Funding from the grant will be used to establish campus fire safety programs nationwide and continue efforts in firefighter safety and training programs. College campuses unfortunately reflect the latest overwhelming trends in fire-related deaths and injuries—since January 2000, there have been 114 campus-rrelated fire deaths across the country with over 80 percent of them occurring in off-campus student housing.
Canada.com (8/14/2007)
Fire deaths in region highest in 10 years
The B.C. Coroners Service is alarmed by a 10-year high in fire deaths in the capital region this year. There will likely be an investigation examining the role smoking and smoke alarms played in the deadly blazes.
The Philadelphia Inquirer (8/14/2007)
3 firefighters hurt in Pa. blaze
This article reports that three firefighters were injured after a townhouse fire in Philadelphia. One firefighter was on a ventilator for treatment of smoke inhalation in the critical-care unit yesterday in the Crozer-Chester Medical Center.
The Kansas City Star (8/14/2007)
Smoke inhalation kills six family members in St. Joseph fire
Six members of a St. Joseph, Missouri family died of smoke inhalation in a fire that destroyed their home over the weekend. Police Commander Jim Connors said that his department was working with fire investigators and received the autopsy results on Monday.
Chicago Tribune (8/14/2007)
West Side fire injures 4, including 2 police officers
This article reports that officers suffered from minor smoke inhalation after battling a fire in an apartment building on West Augusta Boulevard in Chicago.
Press Association Newswire – Republic of Ireland (8/14/2007)
Seven Need Hospital Treatment After Bar Fire
This article reports that seven people were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire in the Zagloba Bar pub in Dublin.
Health & Medicine Week (8/13/2007)
Cell Biology: Research results from Harvard University update cell biology knowledge
This article reports on research by Harvard scientists that explores the role of the c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK) pathway in smoke inhalation lung injury using an animal model that exposed rats to smoke from burning cotton. In the study, researchers administered a JNK inhibitor to the rats one hour after smoke inhalation and found that the inhibitor significantly prolonged animal survival. The researchers concluded that the study data show that the JNK pathway plays a critical role in smoke-induced lung injury and offers an attractive therapeutic approach for this type of injury.
Medical Devices & Surgical Technology Week (8/12/2007)
Burn Care: Reports from University of Texas highlight recent research in burn care
This article reports on recent research that found injury from smoke inhalation causes significant morbidity and mortality, accounting for nearly 80 percent of non-fire-related deaths and affecting nearly 25 percent of all patients hospitalized with thermal injury. The research also found that high-frequency percussive ventilation (HFPV) has been reported to decrease-both the incidence of pulmonary barotrauma and pneumonia in smoke inhalation injury.
Boston Herald (8/11/2007)
Fire aboard Navy ship turns up heat on jakes
This article reports that a fire on a Navy cargo ship in South Boston resulted in one firefighter being treated for a shoulder injury and three civilian workers being treated for smoke inhalation.
Yorkshire Evening Post (8/11/2007)
Big drop in fire deaths in the home
The latest national fire statistics for the UK show that for the 12 months leading up to Sept. 30, 2006, home fire deaths fell by nine per cent to 342 — the lowest since records began.
Messenger-Inquirer (8/10/2007)
Officials creating evacuation strategy: Inmates may be shifted to four other counties
This article reported that Daviess County Detention Center and other correctional facilities in Kentucky are developing plans for the safe evacuation and transport of inmates in the event of a disaster such as a prison fire. The article also reported that a fire at a correctional facility in Taney County, Mississippi cut the power supply to electronic prison doors and officials had to use an acetylene torch to open a maximum-security cell. As a result of this fire, four inmates died of smoke inhalation and more than 20 others suffered smoke-related injuries.
News24.com (8/9/2007)
University probes hostel fire
A few students were admitted to a hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out on the campus of Stellenbosch University (South Africa). One of the hospitalized students was in serious condition.
Firehouse.com (8/8/2007)
Institution of Fire Engineers-USA awarded grant to develop national fire safety strategy
The U.S. Branch of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE-USA) was awarded a $238,000 grant from the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security to develop and distribute a National Strategic Agenda for Fire and Life Safety that can be used by federal fire and life safety agencies and organizations. As part of its efforts, the IFE will bring together organizations with expertise in fire prevention to execute a gap analysis and identify recommendations for a National Strategic Plan for Fire Prevention in the United States. The article reports that this project comes at a time when a number of states and communities across the United States are seeing a higher rate of fire deaths.
South Florida Sun-Sentinel (8/8/2007)
Tragedies help prepare for the worst;
fire fighters follow scenarios of actual fire deaths in training
Fire fighters in the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Dept. (FL) participated in a yearly "Save Your Own" training program. As part of the program, firefighters practice saving each other in a mock fire scene. All new recruits go through the training. Although the training typically isn't required for all firefighters, many other fire-rescue departments do similar training as a way to decrease firefighter deaths.
Tooele Transcript Bulletin (8/8/2007)
Dugway copes with tragedy
This article reports that a preliminary autopsy has found that three victims of car fire in Skull Valley, Utah, died from burns and smoke inhalation.
BuaNews Online (8/8/2007)
Assessment of fire damage finalized soon
This article reports that the Mpumalanga (South Africa) government expects to make a full assessment within the next two weeks of the damage caused by wildfires that burned from July 29-Aug. 5, 2007. Ten people, including six fire fighters, were killed, while 14 were injured and another six were treated for smoke inhalation.
TypicallySpanish.com (8/7/2007)
Women dies, another seriously injured, after blaze in Alcala de Henares
Two children and three adults were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out on the eighth floor of a building in Alcala de Henares, Spain. The fire claimed the life of one woman and forced more than 100 people to be evacuated.
The Globe and Mail (8/7/2007)
Two dead; five injured in early morning blaze
This article reports that a Victoria Fire Department (Canada) has confirmed that two people were killed and five others injured as a result of smoke inhalation after a house fire broke out on Monday. A similar article was published in the Vancouver Sun newspaper.
Associated Press Newswires (8/6/2007)
Firefighters bring blaze threatening medieval Dubrovnik under control
This article reports that residents joined firefighters in battling flames that threatened to destroy the medieval city of Dubrovnik (Croatia), with crews managing to bring the blaze under control on Monday. It was not immediately clear how many people were treated for smoke inhalation, but paramedics were seen attending to a number of firefighters at the scene.
Tulsa World (8/6/2007)
Nine injured in overnight fire
This article reports that five residents of an apartment in Tulsa, OK were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out. Three of the people were taken to local hospitals. Four firefighters also were treated for heat-related problems or minor burns. A similar article was published in the McClatchy-Tribune Regional News.
thinkSPAIN.com (8/6/2007)
Retired couple and son die in Barcelona fire
A fire in an eight-story apartment building in Barcelona, Spain left three people dead and four hospitalized with smoke inhalation. The fire completely destroyed four floors of the apartment structure.
WDIV.com (8/4/2007)
An apartment fire sends 7 people to hospital
An apartment blaze in Detroit, MI, resulted in seven people being sent to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
Philippine Daily Inquirer (8/4/2007)
3 hour fire destroys Muntinlupa City Hall
Two firefighters and three civilians suffered smoke inhalation after a fire raged for a little over three hours at Muntinlupa City Hall in the Philippines. The fire destroyed the building, leaving only portions of two offices on the first floor untouched.
The Press Association (8/4/2007)
Hospital treatment for blaze family
A family of seven was taken to the hospital and treated for smoke inhalation following a blaze at their home in Scotland.
Independent Online (8/3/2007)
Fire sends residents running
Four explosions at a factory in Clare Estate, South Africa resulted in a large fire that caused several people to seek treatment for smoke inhalation.
USAID (8/3/2007)
USAID provides assistance to help fight wildfires in Bulgaria
The U.S government will provide $50,000 to Bulgaria for the purchase of fire fighting equipment to assist the country in combating wildfires. Recently, 2,000 wildfires occurred across Bulgaria. The fires caused the death of one person, and a large number of people sought medical assistance for smoke inhalation.
Channel News Asia (8/3/2007)
Five injured in fire at Jalan Bukit Merah
Five people were injured after a fire broke out at HDB Block 105 in Jalan Bukit Merah in Singapore on Friday morning. One of them, a 70-year-old man who was rescued by firefighters from a burning flat, suffered burns on his body. Four others from neighbouring units suffered smoke inhalation. All five have been sent to the hospital.
Contra Costa Times (8/2/2007)
Report details causes of death in San Pablo Fire
This article states that smoke inhalation and thermal injuries were to blame for the July 21 deaths of four people, including two Contra Costa firefighters. Firefighters were attempting to rescue a couple from their burning home when the two firefighters became stuck in the bedroom. The couple and the firefighters were later found dead in the home.
Firehouse.com (8/2/2007)
Pennsylvania crews battling foam factory blaze
Crews continue to fight a large blaze at the Keystone Foam Corporation in Pennsylvania. Crews said the glue and foam inside the building continue to burn, which is a hazardous combination that creates hydrogen cyanide. Officials are keeping people about 100 yards from the plant while firefighters work to extinguish the flames.
MCN (8/2/2007)
Update: Canary Islands wildfire under control
This article gives an update to the Canary Island forest fires that caused dozens of people to be treated for smoke inhalation, and led to the evacuation of 12,000 tourists and residents, and destroyed 160 homes. Firefighters, aided by mild winds and cooler temperatures, brought the two separate forest fires in Spain's Canary Islands under control Thursday morning.
Gulfnews.com (8/2/2007)
Six people injured as blaze reduces factory in industrial area to ashes
Two firefighters and two officers suffered smoke inhalation after a huge fire engulfed a wood and foam factory in the Sharjah Industrial Area No 5 in the UAE at noon on Thursday.
ABC30.com (8/1/2007)
Poor communication caused slow response to Lemoore fires
This article reports that five victims died from smoke inhalation in Fresno after officials say a communication issue caused a two-minute delay in responding to a deadly apartment fire.
The Associated Press (8/1/2007)
W. Va.'s high rate of fire deaths continues into new fiscal year
West Virginia's rate of fire deaths, reported to be at its highest rate, continues to increase. A record 79 people died in fires between July 1, 2006, and June 30, 2007. Normally, the state averages between 30 and 45 fire-related deaths per year.
Earthtimes.org (8/1/2007)
Firefighters continue to battle fires on Tenerife and Gran Canaria
This article reports that dozens of people have been treated for smoke inhalation, slight burns and anxiety since two huge wildfires broke out on the Canary Islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Nearly 14,000 people have been evacuated from their homes on the two islands, where flames have circled and partly burned down a total area of 35,000 hectares. Firefighters continue to battle the blaze.
The Associated Press (7/29/2007)
Lightning strike sets Long Island garage, houses on fire
This article reports that 8 firefighters were treated for minor injuries, including smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion, after battling two house fires sparked by a bolt of lightning in Nassau County. Similar articles published by The New York Times and Newsday.
Sunday Tribune (7/29/2007)
As many as 19 people feared dead as fires ravage country
As many as 19 people were feared dead as fires ravaged portions of KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Swaziland. Firefighters were treated for burns and smoke inhalation.
Agence France Press (7/29/2007)
35 suffer smoke inhalation in Paris metro fire
Thirty-five people were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out in the Paris Metro. A Metro employee put the fire out rapidly with an extinguisher, but 15 people suffered severe smoke inhalation and were treated at the hospital.
Daily Telegraph (7/27/2007)
Staff hurt in hostel fire
This article reports that in Australia five hostel staff were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire that led to the evacuation of 50 hostel residents.
Associated Press Newswires (7/26/2007)
Fire breaks out in three-star hotel, seven injured, 124 evacuated
This article reports that seven people were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out early Thursday at a hotel in Italy, near Rome's main train station. The fire forced the evacuation of all 124 guests. A similar story was published in Reuters News.
Associated Press Writer (7/25/2007)
Suspects arraigned in home-invasion homicides
This article reports that the suspects in the triple-homicide death of a woman and her two daughters will be arraigned. The two daughters died of smoke inhalation when the suspects set the home of the family on fire. This article was picked up by the New York Times, LA Times, South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, The Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, and The Statesman.
Vancouver Sun (7/25/2007)
Explosion rips through Annacis Island chemical plant
Six people suffered from injuries and smoke inhalation after an explosion ripped through an Annacis Island chemical plant early Tuesday. Delta police Const. Paul Eisenzimmer said a process in a Chemcraft Sadolin plant, which mixes paint and other chemical solutions, apparently caused an explosion resulting in a fire.
ANSA English Media Service (7/25/2007)
Southern fire emergency continues
This article reports that 300 people have now been treated for smoke inhalation since large fires burned across areas of central and southern Italy. The forest fire has killed three people and forced thousands of people to be evacuated from their homes.
ANSA English Media Service (7/24/2007)
Four die in fires in Pugila
This article reports that Italy's forest fire claimed the lives of four more people in the southern region of Puglia on Tuesday. Two of the four people died of smoke inhalation on a beach near Peschici, and some tourists in Pugila were treated for smoke inhalation.
Associated Press (7/24/2007)
Fire rages outside of Macedonian city
This article reports that one man died from smoke inhalation and 20 people were rescued from burning homes from a fire in Macedonia's second largest city, Bitola, on Tuesday. The fire destroyed several dozen homes and set off unexploded shells from World War I. Several thousand firefighters, soldiers and local residents worked to contain the fire.
Reuters News (7/24/2007)
Update 2-Heatwave, fires, wreak havoc in southeast Europe
This article reports that a major heat wave in southeast Europe caused forest fires to continue to rage in the area. One man died of smoke inhalation in the southern town of Bitola and 200 were evacuated from a suburb. In Macedonia temperatures hit an all-time record of 45 degrees.
Athens News Agency (7/24/2007)
FYROM asks assistance from Greece in battling Bitola blaze
This article reports that a man died from smoke inhalation caused by a fire that is continuing to blaze through Bitola, Greece. FYROM Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski on Tuesday announced that he requested assistance from the Greek authorities and other neighboring countries in tackling the extensive forest fire.
Daily News (7/24/2007)
Police flats blaze; Sergeant dies from smoke inhalation, burn injuries
This article reports that 4 people, a police sergeant and his family, were treated for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out in their apartment building in the UK. The sergeant died after sustaining second degree burns to 90% of his body. The building, Natalia Court, situated next to the Durban Central police complex, is home to 107 families.
Australian Associated Press (7/23/2007)
Vic; Damage bill of millions expected from factory fire
This article reports that a firefighter suffered from smoke inhalation after helping to battle a fire that destroyed three factory warehouses, causing millions of dollars in damage and closing one of Melbourne, Australia’s busiest highways during peak hour. More than 60 CFA and Metropolitan Fire Brigade firefighters were on the scene at the height of the fire. Twenty-five fire trucks, including 10 pumpers and three aerial units, were used.
Associated Press (7/22/2007)
Mass. seeks aid for businesses hurt in mill fire
This article reports that the Patrick administration of Massachusetts asked the federal government to provide financial assistance to businesses affected by a fire that engulfed a downtown mill complex in central Massachusetts. Seven firefighters were injured, mostly from smoke inhalation and exhaustion. More than 300 firefighters, including some from Rhode Island, battled the fire Saturday that destroyed 65 small businesses.
Newsquest Media Group Newspapers (7/20/2007)
Fire safety message
This article reports that in Hertfordshire County in the UK, a countrywide safety plan, created by Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, aims to create a safer community where there are no preventable deaths, injuries or damage from fires or other emergency incidents. The plan is open for public consultation from July 16 to October 8. The draft plan will then be considered by Cabinet at Hertfordshire County Council.
The Buffalo News (7/18/2007)
Demolition orders follow two fires; Niagara Falls
This article reports that emergency demolition crews were called after fires Monday night and early Tuesday destroyed a motel and restaurant. Several people were treated for minor smoke inhalation. Smoke spread to the motel in the rear of the property, and 26 of the 35 motel rooms occupied at the time were evacuated.
Chicago Sun-Times (7/18/2007)
Cops brave fire to evacuate building; Fast work gets 50 to 75 residents out
This article reports on a Chicago fire where five officers were treated for smoke inhalation after fire fighters worked to contain a fire that destroyed a nine-story apartment building. Officers and fire fighters evacuated 50 to 75 residents.
Chicago Tribune (7/17/2007)
13 hurt in apartment fires in Bridgeview
This article reported that seven residents and three police officers suffered from minor smoke inhalation when a fire broke out in an Bridgeview apartment building. The three injured officers were treated on the scene for minor smoke inhalation, along with six tenants from the 12-unit building.
The State (7/16/2007)
About the arson case
This article reports on a federal death penalty trial in South Carolina, in which Eric Preston Hans is on trial for intentionally causing a hotel fire that lead to the deaths of six people. Five of the six hotel guests who died suffered smoke inhalation, and the sixth died of smoke inhalation and burns, according to court papers filed by prosecutors.
Tampa Tribune (7/12/2007)
Latest fire at plant puts 370 jobs in limbo
This article reports that the fire at the Precisionaire manufacturing plant, which resulted in five employees being treated for smoke inhalation, was the largest fire at a Polk County structure in recent memory and was the third at the Precisionaire plant since April. Previous fires at the plant on April 18 and July 2 are already being investigated by the State Fire Marshal's Office. They are now combining all fires into one investigation. Similar stories were published by Milwaukee Business Journal (WI), San Antonio Business Journal (TX) and The Ledger (FL).
The Ledger (7/11/2007)
Fire destroys Bartow plant
This article reports on a massive fire that destroyed Flanders Precisionaire's plant; the company manufactures air conditioners. Several employees were treated for smoke inhalation. It is unknown what sparked the fire; however, firefighters say that the air filters the plant produces could have helped to spread the fire because of the flammable materials they contain.
All Africa (7/11/2007)
Fire guts hostel at Parirenyatwa
This article provides information regarding the fire that gutted a hostel, which housed nearly 120 students, at the Parirenyatwa Hospital yesterday morning. Ten student nurses were treated for smoke inhalation.
The Journal News (7/9/2007)
Rockland plans seminar to learn from S.C tragedy
This article reports that Rockland, N.Y. fire officials are planning a seminar to address what went wrong in Charleston, S.C. On June 18, the roof of the Sofa Super Store collapsed on nine firefighters, who died of smoke inhalation and burns. Acknowledging that Rockland County has building structures that are similar to the one that collapsed on firefighters in South Carolina, fire officials want to discuss how a similar loss of life could be prevented. Speakers at the Rockland seminar may include William Goldfeder, administrator of www.firefighterclosecalls.com, a Web site that collects information on fires and safety. The Rockland Fire Training Center in Ramapo has hosted dozens of training seminars, Wren said, and they often draw people from other counties, New York City, New Jersey and Connecticut.
Pioneer Press (7/8/2007)
Anoka neighbors allowed to return to homes after fire causes chemical fears
This article reports that an early Sunday morning fire in Anoka, MN, forced about a dozen people to evacuate their homes for nearly six hours. A chemical assessment team was summoned to the scene, because authorities wanted to ensure that hydrogen cyanide was not present. The article explains that hydrogen cyanide is a chemical compound that can be lethal if inhaled. Residents were permitted to return home after the fire was under control and the chemical assessment team deemed the area safe.
MSNBC (7/5/2007)
Charleston balks at federal fire probe
This article discusses the debate as to whether the Charleston, S.C. fire chief would allow the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to interview fire department employees involved in the South Carolina Sofa Super Store fire. The article reports that on last Thursday the fire chief retracted his movement to block a federal investigation into the deaths of nine firefighters. The firefighters died from smoke inhalation and burns. While the CDC investigates many firefighter fatalities, the CDC has scaled back its investigations, and normally does not investigate if a fire department or firefighters' union objects. Fire experts said that the Charleston fire raises several issues about firefighter safety, meriting a federal investigation. WCIV (SC) also reported on this story.
Associated Press ((6/29/07)
Questions remain in deadly SC fire where 9 firefighters were killed
This article discusses questions surrounding the cause and aftermath of the South Carolina fire, which led to the death of 9 firefighters from burns and smoke inhalation. In the aftermath, the local firefighter's union raised questions about the cause of the fire and the fire department's response, including a policy allowing incident commanders to enter the fire.
Boston Globe, (6/28/07)
Facing flames, 3 people rescued from roof of burning home
This article reports that firefighters in Marborough, MA rescued three people from a burning home. The article detailed that the three rescued were taken to Memorial Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.
BBC News.com (UK), (6/29/07)
Greek forest fire close to Athens
This article reports that firefighters in Greece are fighting a fire just outside Athens. Two volunteer firefighters have died of smoke inhalation.
Charlotte Observer (NC), (6/29/07),
Families in jail fire can sue state; 2002 Mitchell County blaze
killed 8 inmates; county has already settled legal claims
This article reports that the N.C. Supreme Court ruled Thursday that families of four of the eight inmates who died in the 2002 Mitchell County jail fire - and one survivor - can sue the state for negligence. The article details that eight inmates died of smoke inhalation.
CBS News (6/22/07)
Charleston Fire Probe Going Quickly
This article provides continued coverage of the furniture store fire that killed nine Charleston, SC firefighters earlier this week. According to this article, investigators are working long hours to determine the cause of the fire and to determine whether the safety of the firefighters was compromised by the decision to enter the burning building. This news was picked up by additional outlets, including Firehouse.com, Fire Rescue 1, CNN and all CBS television affiliates nationwide.
Associated Press (6/20/07), Worst Loss Of Firefighters Since 9/11
Associated Press, (6/20/07),
Nine Firefighters Killed In Blaze; Comrades, Families Wait Hours For Names
ABC News (6/19/07), Safety Overhaul? Experts Say Sprinklers Would
Prevent Multiple Deaths in Fires, but They're Still Not Mandatory
These articles provide continued coverage of yesterday's tragic fire in Charleston, South Carolina that resulted in the deaths of nine local firefighters. Seven other firefighters are being treated for severe smoke inhalation. This coverage details the circumstances of how the firefighters died, when a roof collapsed, as well as a description of the conditions that firefighters dealt with. The articles note that this was the largest number of firefighters killed at one time responding to a call since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 that killed 343 members of the New York City Fire Department. According to the coverage, those killed had more than 130 years of firefighting experience among them. The ABC News article discusses how fire codes are working to prevent mass fire casualties by requiring all buildings to have sprinklers. According to the article, the Sprinkler Association said "three properly installed sprinkler heads could have extinguished Monday's deadly fire before it killed nine firefighters." This news received national coverage, including CNN, ABC News, CBS News, NBC News, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and many local newspapers throughout the country.
Journal News (Westchester County, NY) (6/19/07
19 Yonkers Firefighters Hurt Battling Blaze That Displaces 15 People
This article reports that 19 Yonkers city firefighters were injured yesterday battling an early morning three-alarm fire in a three-story building. According to the article, the firefighters suffered a number of minor injuries including back pains, exhaustion and smoke inhalation. The article reports that the heavy smoke from the wood-frame building, coupled with the humidity, wore down many of the firefighters; however, none of them had to be hospitalized.
Eyewitness News Providence, WPRI-TV (6/19/07)
Several Children and Pets Injured in Providence Fire
A Providence apartment fire injured several children and pets on the evening of June 18. According to the article, one infant and two young children suffered smoke inhalation, and at least one firefighter was also injured. The article reports that the Fire Chief on scene stated the almost 80-degree temperatures outside made fighting the fire difficult inside.
Associated Press (6/19/07)
SC Warehouse Fire Kills 9 Firefighters
A major fire destroyed a furniture warehouse in Charleston, SC, killing nine firefighters who responded to the call. According to the article, two employees in the building were rescued from the blaze, which broke out at about 7 p.m. June 18 in the Sofa Super Store and warehouse. The article states that firefighters, police officers and other rescue workers saluted as the bodies were carried from the warehouse during the night. The article does not report on how the firefighters died or if there were any additional injuries. This story received national pickup, including CNN, New York Times, Charlotte Observer and Fire Rescue 1.
Firehouse.com (6/15/07)
Hydrogen Cyanide: It's Not Just a HazMat Anymore
The article reports on hydrogen cyanide (HCN), the highly toxic gas formed when materials such as wool, silk, cotton, nylon, plastics, polymers, foam, melamine and synthetic rubber burn. Even though HCN is 35 times more toxic than carbon monoxide, more attention is paid to carbon monoxide poisoning during fire fighter training. The article notes that scientific analysis of several fires within the past 20 years has shown the previously misunderstood role of HCN. For example, experiments conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology after the 2003 Rhode Island nightclub fire suggest that CO and HCN levels rose to lethal levels shortly after the fire started as oxygen levels plummeted.
Firehouse.com (6/15/07)
To Be, or Not to Be: We know the fire problem,
why don't we decrease it?
This article reports there are too many residential fires in the U.S., claiming the general public is unaware of the problem since fire deaths do not make national headlines. The author notes that while smoke detectors are effective, residential fire sprinkler systems could help reduce fire related casualties.
Associated Press (6/14/07)
Police: Community Input Casts Doubt On Baby Sitter In Fatal Fire
The article reports five children died from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning on June 12 in Pittsburgh. The blaze, reported at about 1:20 a.m. Tuesday, began when children playing with matches set fire to furnishings in the living room of the three-story house in the city's Larimer neighborhood, officials said. The article notes that witnesses and neighbors are casting doubt on whether there was a babysitter caring for the children at the time.
The Daily Courier (6/13/07)
Local Firefighters Will Participate In Stand Down Event
The International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Fire Fighters, and the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section of the IAFC are sponsoring the 2007 International Fire and EMS Safety Stand Down during the week of June 17. The Stand Down will focus on preparing firefighters and EMS personnel for their daily duties by reviewing their training and the proper use of equipment to ensure safe response, mitigation and return from all emergency situations.
Associated Press (6/13/07)
House Fire Kills 5 Children in Pittsburgh
A major fire that raced through a three-story row house on June 12, killing five children, may have been caused by the youngsters playing with matches, authorities said. According to the article, all five children died of smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning. Two other children in the house were able to escape without injury. The article states that police are trying to determine whether the children were alone or in the care of a teenage baby sitter, and if this babysitter exists. This article received national pickup, including CNN.com, MSN.com, Cleveland Plain Dealer, Philadelphia Inquirer and the New York Daily News.
Journal-News (Trenton, OH) (6/12/07)
Officials: Pencil Warehouse Blaze Suspicious
This article reports that a suspicious fire at the Panda Pencil Inc. warehouse in Ohio is being investigated as arson, according to officials. According to the article, three police officers assisting at the fire scene were treated for smoke inhalation, but no additional injuries were reported. The article notes that Panda Pencil Inc. is the world's largest producer of 3½-inch golf pencils. The company, which on average makes more than 280,000 pencils a day, lost all the paint stored at its warehouse at the Pierson Road complex, owner Richard Esposito said Sunday night.
Firehouse.com (6/11/07)
New York Supermarket Fire Injures 17
This article reports that five workers who were locked inside a burning supermarket in New York City early June 9 were rescued after firefighters broke down the doors. The five workers and 12 firefighters all suffered minor smoke inhalation. Coverage also appeared in the New York Post.
Chicago Tribune (6/10/07)
Local Family Hit Hard By Georgia Fire
The article reports that a young family with ties to Chicago suffered the loss of a mother and two of her children late last week in a motel fire outside Atlanta. De-sha and her brother, Devon Butler Jr., 12, died Thursday morning in a Budget Inn in Riverdale, Ga. Also killed were the children's mother, Shakita Jones; her fiance, Freddie Colston; and Jones' uncle, Melvin Jones. All five died from smoke inhalation. The family's oldest child, Shae-von Butler, a 14-year-old girl, survived but remained in serious condition Friday night, officials said.
News-Daily (Jonesboro, GA) (6/8/07)
Five Dead In Riverdale Motel Fire; Five Others Injured, Including 2 Firefighters
This article reports on a fire in a Georgia motel that killed five people and wounded five others. The fire consumed the entire motel, and firefighters had to call for back-up four times. The article reports that two of the injured were firefighters, and that the wounded were treated for burns, smoke inhalation and exhaustion. This article received national coverage, including Associated Press, CNN.com and MSNBC.
Trenton Times (6/7/07)
3 Treated For Inhalation Following Prison Blaze
This article reports that three corrections officers were sent to a hospital for smoke inhalation treatment after a fire broke out at New Jersey State Prison. According to the article, the fire began in the afternoon and was contained to a single cell. No inmates were injured, and all 359 prisoners were evacuated to another part of the prison.
KUTV-TV (Salt Lake City, UT) (6/7/07)
Evacuation After Fire At Salt Lake International Airport
According to this article, a propane tank leak ignited a fire during an emergency training exercise near the Salt Lake City International Airport. Firefighters were training in an area close to the airport called "the burn pit," when a large propane tank that fuels the controlled flames started leaking. Hazardous materials teams arrived at the scene to control the leak, and officials evacuated the area immediately surrounding the training site, which stretched approximately one mile wide. A group of students who were watching the firefighters train were among those evacuated, but no injuries have been reported. This story received local coverage including the Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News.
WFAA-TV (Dallas, TX) (6/7/07)
Suspicious Fire At Arlington Businesses
This article reports on a two-alarm fire in the Dallas area that resulted in three people being treated for smoke inhalation. The fire destroyed one business and caused serious damage to the neighboring store. Investigators said that there have been a string of suspicious fires in the same area recently.
FireRescue1 (6/7/07)
What's Killing Firefighters - And What To Do About It
This article reports on a study in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) that revealed the biggest on-duty killer of firefighters is coronary heart disease, and the subsequent potential for cardiac arrest. According to the article, the study found that cardiovascular disease accounts for 45 percent of all on-duty deaths and that of the 1,144 on-duty deaths in firefighters from 1994 to 2004, 39 percent of the deaths were due to coronary heart disease. The research also showed firefighters' professional activities strongly influence the chances of a cardiac event. The article reports that research shows cardiac events are often work-related since they occur in association with specific duties and are distributed throughout the day as call volume occurs, rather than peaking in the morning as they do among non-firefighters. The article calls for improved health and wellness programs to decrease the rate of cardiovascular disease and death among firefighters.
Firehouse.com (6/5/07)
NFPA Releases Firefighter Death Study
This article reports on the results of a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) study of trends in on-duty firefighter deaths over the past 30 years that were released recently at the NFPA World Safety Conference. According to the article, the study results note that the leading cause of on-duty firefighter deaths is sudden cardiac arrest, followed by vehicle crashes. The article reports that the review also showed that after cardiac-related issues (1,461 deaths) and crashes (383), other leading causes were caught or trapped by fire or explosions (207); structural collapses (204); falls or jumps (175) and struck by vehicles (135). The article includes further statistical breakdown and analysis of the trends.
FireFighting News.com (6/5/07)
Chemicals Blaze At Factory
This article reports on a major fire at a British chemical factory that required more than 80 firefighters to get under control. According to the article, there were no reports of injuries or fatalities. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and the article provides information regarding the fire scene.
Associated Press (6/4/07)
Fire Damages Adapted Home Of Hurt Marine
This article reports on a house fire in a small Pennsylvania town that injured four people. The four were hospitalized with smoke inhalation after a fire tore through their home, which had been recently renovated to accommodate a Marine who was severely injured in Iraq.
Associated Press (6/3/07)
G-8 Protest Clash Injures Hundreds
This article reports that clashes between police and anti-G-8 demonstrators injured more than 400 police officers during a huge protest against the upcoming summit in northern Germany, authorities said Sunday. Protest organizers said 520 demonstrators were hurt. According to the article, 433 police officers were hurt, including 30 who were hospitalized with broken bones and lacerations after fighting into the evening Saturday with some 2,000 protesters who showered them with beer bottles and fist-sized rocks, police said. The article notes that other officers were treated for smoke inhalation from burning vehicles and debris, and for eye irritation from the tear gas used by police in an attempt to dissipate the skirmishing groups of black-clad youths. This story received international coverage including USA Today, New York Times, Financial Times, Times of London, and CNN.
Associated Press (6/2/07)
Memphis Apartment Fire Injures 2 Residents, 3 Firefighters
This article reports that five people were hospitalized with smoke inhalation, including three firefighters, after a three-alarm fire broke out in a high-rise Memphis apartment building. According to the article, two of the firefighters were treated and released, but one remained hospitalized late yesterday.
Boston Globe (5/30/07)
Firefighter Dies After Shift; Another Suffers Smoke Inhalation
This article reports on two Boston firefighters, one who died of an apparent heart attack after a shift and one who is being treated for severe smoke inhalation after rushing into a burning building. According to the article, firefighter David A. Middleton was assigned to Engine 51 in Brighton and responded to multiple calls during his regular Sunday shift, fire officials said. He said he wasn't feeling well after returning from a second fire, but stayed on until the end of his shift at 8 a.m. Monday, said fire spokesman Steve MacDonald. Boston fire officials are considering it a line-of-duty death. The article reports that firefighter Glenn Preston is in intensive care after he ran into a burning house while off duty.
Barre Montpelier Times Argus (Montpelier, VT) (5/30/07)
UVM Fire Sends 15 Firefighters To Hospital
Fifteen firefighters were hospitalized with possible chemical exposure after battling a fire in a geology lab at the University of Vermont. According to the article, firefighters who responded to the scene showed symptoms of chemical exposure, such as burning eyes and skin irritation. The article reports that the lab contained hydrochloric acid and other chemicals used to dissolve quartz. Officials said that the firefighters were treated and released after the symptoms disappeared.
Associated Press (5/29/07)
Fire From Candles Kills 37 Pets, Injures Owner
This article reports that a major house fire in Miami killed 32 cats and five dogs and sent their owner to a hospital, authorities said Monday. According to the article, untended candles sparked the blaze Saturday night in the home, which had been without electricity since Hurricane Katrina, Miami-Dade Fire-Rescue officials said. The homeowner, a 57-year-old woman whose name was not released, was treated for smoke inhalation. The article states that a dozen pets were rescued and are currently being cared for by Dade County officials.
Kentucky Post (5/26/07)
Fatal Fire Sparks Reforms;
Building Code Changes Credited With Saving Lives
The horrendous 1977 Beverly Hills Supper Club fire that killed 165 people in Southgate, Kentucky, ultimately spawned fire and building code changes that experts believe have saved untold thousands from a similar fate over the past 30 years. This article reports that the fire investigation that followed identified numerous factors that contributed to the blaze and the large number of deaths. Those findings cast a light on the critical need for better fire prevention and safety measures in public buildings nationwide after investigators found that the club's construction, contents and lack of fire safety features contributed to the tragedy. The article states that before the fire, experts say few public buildings had the kinds of safety features that are commonplace today. The 30th anniversary of the fire was on Saturday, according to the article.
ABC 12 WJRT-TV (Detroit) (5/24/07
Deadly Fire Kills 5 Children, 1 Adult
This article reports on a house fire in Saginaw (MI) that killed six people, including five children. According to the article, killed in the fire were Samuel Watkins, age 36, and his five stepchildren: 13-year-old Adam Dupuis and daughters Majesty Price (age 8), Destiny Price (age 5), and Essence Price (age 3). Also killed was their baby brother, Chad Skinner, who turned 1 year old Wednesday. It is being described as an horrific accident. It's believed four of the five children died in their sleep from smoke inhalation.
Associated Press (5/24/07)
5-Year-Old Killed, Five Injured In Harrisburg House Fire
This article reports on a house fire in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, that killed a 5-year old boy and severely injured five of his family members. According to the article, the boy died of smoke inhalation and burns. Authorities said a grease fire started at about 2:00 a.m. in the kitchen of the home, where seven children and four adults lived. The house was not believed to have had working smoke detectors.
Baltimore Sun (5/23/07)
'No One Should ... Die That Way';
Hundreds Pack Church To Mourn 6 Killed In City Fire
This article provides continued coverage of a house fire in Baltimore yesterday that killed six people. Several people are still hospitalized with serious injuries, including smoke inhalation.
Associated Press (5/22/07)
Widows Of Kentucky Blast Sue Coal Mine Owner
This article reports on a lawsuit filed against a mine supervisor and a coal company by the widows of four men killed in a mine explosion last year. The lawsuit cited numerous safety violations issued by regulators against Kentucky Darby LLC, coal boss Ralph Napier and Jericol Mining, which provided management, planning, engineering and safety training to Darby Mine No. 1. According to the article, the lawsuit was filed in Harlan County a year and a day after the May 20, 2006 blast, which was ignited by miners Jimmy Lee and shift foreman Amon "Cotton" Brock as they used an open torch near a methane leak. Brock, 51, and Lee, 33, died at the scene of the blast. Roy Middleton, 35, Paris Thomas Jr., 53, and Bill Petra, 49, died from carbon monoxide poisoning and smoke inhalation while trying to escape. This article was picked up nationally by outlets that included Kentucky.com, Boston Herald, Philadelphia Daily News, Forbes, Court TV, and the Houston Chronicle.
Associated Press (5/22/07)
House Fire Kills Pregnant Woman, 3 Kids
A pregnant woman and her three children died early yesterday in a Detroit house fire that was apparently sparked by an unattended barbecue grill, destroying their house and scorching two others, a fire official and neighbors said. According to fire officials, there were no working smoke detectors in the house. The children's father was in the hospital in critical condition with burns over 80 percent of his body. According to the article, the children were a three-year-old boy and two girls, ages five and seven. The woman was eight months pregnant.
ABC 7 News (Baltimore) (5/22/07)
Six Confirmed Dead at Baltimore Fire Scene
This article reports on a major fire in a Baltimore rowhouse that killed six people and seriously injured at least five others. The fire was reported about 7:20 a.m. Tuesday, and the first firefighters on the scene found both floors fully engulfed in flames and three injured people outside. Initial searches found three confirmed fatalities inside. The article reports that the injured people were being taken to area hospitals for injuries that included burns and smoke inhalation. This story received national and regional coverage, including the Associated Press, My Fox Washington, and WJLA-TV.
CNN.com (5/21/07)
Fire Consumes Historic London Ship
This article reports that the Cutty Sark, thought to be the world's only surviving 19th century tea clipper and a prime relic of the golden age of sail, was engulfed by flames Monday, causing extensive damage to one of London's most popular tourist attractions. The blaze, which began before dawn and took 40 firefighters several hours to extinguish, is expected to drast