The first half of 2024 has witnessed a concerning rise in fire-related deaths.
Anytime someone is injured or dies in a tragic accident, we ask how or if this could have been prevented. Our team of personal injury attorneys is always fighting for justice not only for the victims of negligence but for the safety of our communities.
Overview of NH Statistics
According to an article published by New Hampshire Public Radio, thirteen people have died in fires in just the first six months of 2024. This is more than the total number of fire-related deaths in either 2023 or 2022. These eleven fatal fires have occurred across almost every county in the state, and the victims ranged in age from 36 to 93, highlighting that no one is immune to this danger.
The Critical Role of Smoke Alarms
According to Sean Toomey, New Hampshire's fire marshal, the most alarming trend contributing to these fatalities is the lack of smoke alarms. Nearly three-quarters of the deaths this year occurred in buildings without working smoke alarms or an adequate number of them.
Smoke alarms are vital in providing early warnings and can significantly increase the chances of survival in the event of a fire. Without them, the likelihood of escaping a fire decreases dramatically, especially when people are sleeping.
Best Practices for Smoke Alarm Installation and Maintenance
To ensure maximum protection, it is crucial to follow best practices for installing and maintaining smoke alarms:
- Placement: Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of a home. This ensures comprehensive coverage and early detection no matter where a fire starts.
- Replacement and Maintenance: Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years. Batteries should be changed twice a year to ensure they remain functional. It is also essential to test smoke alarms monthly.
- Interconnected Alarms: Having interconnected smoke alarms is ideal. If one alarm detects smoke, all alarms in the house will sound, providing an early and loud warning.
- Wireless Alarms: Wireless smoke alarms are acceptable and can be easier to install without the need for extensive wiring.
- Backup Batteries: Hard-wired smoke alarms should have backup batteries to ensure they function during power outages.
Adhering to these guidelines can greatly enhance the safety of your home and provide crucial early warnings in the event of a fire.
Additionally, community efforts play a significant role in enhancing fire safety awareness. Fire safety education programs and community initiatives aimed at distributing and installing smoke alarms in vulnerable areas can make a substantial difference. By working together, we can create safer environments and reduce the risk of fire-related tragedies.
Legal Action for Wrongful Death in NH
It is essential to understand the legal avenues available for victims and families affected by fire-related deaths. Property owners have a responsibility to maintain fire safety standards, and failing to do so can result in a premises liability case. If the fire was caused by a faulty product, then the manufacturer may be at fault. Holding negligent parties accountable is a vital step in ensuring justice for the victims and preventing future injuries.
For decades, the experienced attorneys at Shaheen & Gordon have been helping the families of those killed in fires pursue legal action. Fires destroy lives, and we understand the emotional and financial impact our clients face. Fires also destroy evidence, making these cases extremely difficult and emphasizing the importance of hiring a team with a proven track record.
If you have questions about a fire-related death, please do not hesitate to contact us.
