By David Pierce
New Hampshire's union leader

CONCORD, NH — New Hampshire fires have already killed more people this year than in all of 2023, raising concerns about smoke detectors and basic fire safety in residential areas.

So far this year, 13 people have died in 11 fires. Nine of those deaths occurred in homes that had no or insufficient number of working smoke detectors, according to a report from the State Fire Marshal.

Nine of the victims died of smoke inhalation.

“In 2024, we are seeing a disturbing increase in fatal fire accidents,” said State Fire Marshal Sean P. Toomey. “Having working smoke detectors in your home is absolutely essential. They provide early detection and give you and your family precious moments to escape in the event of a fire.”

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Last year, there were 11 deadly fires in the state and 12 deaths. By Monday, exactly halfway through 2024, the number of deadly fires had already surpassed that of 2023 and 2022, when nine people died in eight deadly fires.

There have been two fatal fires in Nashua this year, and one each in Manchester, Concord, Dover, Goffstown, Derry, Litchfield, Gilford, Littleton and Charlestown. By far the worst month for fatal fires was April, with five fatalities, including three within three days, from April 25-27.

Although the number of fires in Manchester is at most years' level, firefighters often find that smoke detectors in the buildings they inspect are inadequate, says Peter Lennon, fire safety officer at Manchester Fire Service.

“If you smell smoke, call 911 immediately and get out of your house,” Lennon said. “Any delay can cause significant problems. A fire doubles in size every minute.”

The greatest risk to residents is in the colder months when they begin using wood stoves and other heating sources such as space heaters, Lennon said.

Everyone should make sure they have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors or a combination of both, he said.

In the event of a fire, residents should also close doors behind them when leaving the fire in their home. This helps contain the fire and makes the work of firefighters safer, Lennon said.

Although the number of fires is comparable to that of 2023, the severity this year is much higher than usual, said John Montes, the regional emergency management officer for New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont.

The Red Cross has helped victims of over 50 fires and assisted over 245 people in New Hampshire this year.

Montes urged firefighters and victims to call the Red Cross even in the case of small fires.

“Many people only think to call us when there is a fire and they need shelter, but we do more than that,” he said.

The Red Cross offers financial assistance and referrals for mental health and other services, as well as brochures explaining what to do after a fire.

“We mainly replace glasses, dentures and CPAP machines,” said Montes.

When responding to fatal fires, the Red Cross also works closely with fire officials to identify and offer assistance to next of kin, even if they are from another state.

Since January, the Red Cross of Northern New England has installed more than 500 free smoke detectors in New Hampshire, Montes said. The majority of people asking for smoke detectors are older adults.

Manchester residents can request a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector at manchesterfire.jotform.com/230673904818058.

For fire prevention and safety tips from the State Fire Marshal, visit www.firemarshal.dos.nh.gov/prevention-safety.

(c)2024 The New Hampshire Union Leader (Manchester, NH)
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