West Virginia Fire Safety Resource
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Risk Factors > WV at Risk > Causes > Cooking > Smoking > Electrical > Heating > Arson
Why West Virginia is at Risk
We know that over 4,000 Americans die each year in fires and over 20,000 are injured. But did you know that over 80% of these fires occur in the home?
Add to the loss of life the loss of property. In West Virginia, during July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008, the loss of property from fire was valued at $137,033,413.
There are several factors that place West Virginia at high risk of injury and death by fire. The following are some of the highest risks factors for West Virginians:
High percentage of population lives in rural areas
The U.S. Census Bureau lists West Virginia as the second most rural state in the nation, with almost 64% of our population living in communities of fewer than 2,500. These communities are reliant on the services of mostly volunteer fire departments that might, despite their best efforts, encounter delays in emergency response to fires in isolated, rural areas.
Fewer firefighters
Rural communities are reliant on the services of mostly volunteer fire departments that might, despite their best efforts, encounter delays in emergency response to fires in isolated, rural areas.
If you live in a rural area and are dependent on volunteer fire departments, you should consider talking to your local fire department and letting them know that you may need extra assistance in the event of an emergecy.
High percentage of population is disabled
West Virginia has the highest percentage of people with disabilities in the United States with almost 25 percent of the population having a disability.
High percentage of population over age 65
Fifteen percent of the population of West Virginia is over the age of 65, second only to the state of Florida.
High percentage of population are smokers
From a 2003 survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), West Virginia has one of the highest percentage of people who smoke at 23.7 percent. Roughly one of every four fire deaths in 2003 was attributed to smoking materials.
Older housing / manufactured homes
In West Virginia there are a fairly high number of older houses and manufactured homes, both of which are more vulnerable to fire.
Older/alternative heating sources
Many West Virginians rely on use of alternate heat sources, such as wood, coal, gas and kerosene stoves. Misuse or malfunction of these heat sources frequently ranks among the leading causes of fire.
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