How People Die in Fires in Austria

43 people lost their lives in fires in Austria in 2024. This is shown by an analysis by the Fire Prevention Office (BVS) Upper Austria. More than 90 percent of the victims died in their own homes, with the cause of death usually being smoke inhalation. 42 percent of the victims were over 65 years old and lived alone, about a quarter were only partially mobile.

Vienna with Most Fire Deaths in 2024

"Highly dangerous" is the winter season - about two-thirds of fatal fires occurred between October and March. The most common causes were cigarette remnants, followed by candles and tea lights. Often, however, the fire also originated from heating systems - heaters, tiled stoves, etc. - or from the stove, for example, due to overheated fat or objects left on the cooking surface.

Traditionally, Vienna records the most victims, followed by Lower Austria and Styria. The nationwide number of 43 victims last year is in line with the long-term average, calculated BVS spokesperson Günther Schwabegger. He appeals to install smoke detectors and maintain them regularly, to exercise caution with open lights, fire, or cigarettes, and to never leave candles or tea lights unattended.

(APA/Red.)

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