The State of Pennsylvania lead the United States in the number of fire-related deaths last year and is continuing to lead again this year.
A missing item contributing to some of the deaths is working smoke detectors.
More than 70 people have died in fires across Pennsylvania this year, according to data compiled by the U.S. Fire Administration. More than a dozen victims have been under the age of 18, including two Hellertown girls killed on March 31 as flames engulfed their home, according to a report by the Williamsport Sun-Gazette.
Allentown fire officials noted a rise in severe fatal fires in 2021 with 2022 trending in the same direction. The spike prompted the Allentown Fire Department to team up with the Red Cross and participate in the “Sound the Alarm” program to install free smoke detectors.
A common thread in fatal fires is the lack of smoke detectors or working smoke detectors, Allentown Fire Capt. John Christopher told the Williamsport Sun-Gazette. It’s why the fire department is helping residents take steps toward preventing that kind of devastation, starting with awareness and education.
