In 2003, there were 388,500 reported home fires in the United States , resulting in 3,145 deaths, 13,650 injuries and $5.9 billion in direct property damage. Nationwide, there was a civilian home fire death every 3 hours. Source: National Fire Protection Association
Every year, over 200 people in the United States die from
carbon monoxide (CO)
produced by fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, ranges, water heaters, room heaters). Others die from CO produced while burning charcoal inside a home, garage, vehicle or tent. Still others die from CO produced by cars left running in attached garages. Several thousand people go to hospital emergency rooms for treatment for CO poisoning. Source: EPA
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. It is produced by the incomplete burning of solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels. Appliances fueled with natural gas, liquefied petroleum (LP gas), oil, kerosene, coal, or wood may produce CO. Burning charcoal produces CO. Running cars produce CO. Source: EPA
Every year thousands of homes are damaged by sump pump failure or frozen water pipes. Insurance companies encourage homeowners to install detection devices that can prevent costly home damage.