What is the leading cause of death in fire incidents?

Smoke inhalation is considered the leading cause of death in fire incidents due to the effects of toxic gases and the lack of oxygen in smoke. When a fire occurs, the combustion of materials releases not only heat but also a variety of harmful substances, including carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and other toxic byproducts. Inhaling these gases can quickly compromise the respiratory system and lead to asphyxiation, even before burns are sustained.

Many victims may not be directly exposed to flames but can succumb to smoke inhalation while attempting to escape or while trapped near the source of the fire. The rapid onset of respiratory failure from inhaling smoke can often result in loss of consciousness and death within minutes, making it significantly more lethal than burn injuries or trauma caused by a fire. While burns and cardiac arrest can also contribute to fatalities in fire incidents, smoke inhalation is typically the primary factor in many cases.