Citation

Diekman S, Ballesteros MF, Ahrens M. Am. J. Lifestyle Med. 2011; 6(2): 141-151.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1559827611402602

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Fires are the third leading cause of unintentional home injury deaths. Young children and older adults are especially at risk for home fire deaths. Other high-risk groups include males, people with physical disabilities, people impaired by alcohol or other drugs, and people living in rural communities or in poverty. Lifestyle decisions (eg, choosing products) and behaviors (eg, maintaining working smoke alarms or smoking) can influence the risk of being in and surviving a home fire. Fortunately, medical practitioners can foster safer home environments for their patients by promoting effective fire prevention and protection strategies to reduce home fire risks. This review highlights the association between lifestyle and home fires with a focus on achievable lifestyle changes that can prevent fires and fire-related injuries and deaths.