People trapped in fire accidents who cannot escape in time have a very painful death indeed. But did you know that majority of fire-related deaths are caused by smoke inhalation, which can be life-threatening even without other injuries? Actual flames and burns only account for about 30% of fire related deaths and injuries. People who breathe in smoke during a fire can have life-threatening consequences even if they have no other injuries. The heat from the fire can cause significant damage to the body, leading to the soft tissues contracting, tearing, and shrinking. The internal organs also shrink due to the heat.

Fire accidents in India are no longer isolated incidents—they are becoming a growing national concern, shows a study. Every year, thousands of lives are lost and businesses suffer irreversible damage due to preventable fire hazards. The risk landscape has undergone major changes because of rapid urbanization, increased electrical needs, and industrial operations. Also, human errors like blockage of escape routes, use of electrical equipment beyond prescribed capacities and ignorance of basic fire safety norms.

However, many people still rely on reactive measures instead of building pro-active fire safety systems, mostly to be penny wise and pound foolish, knowing full well that when a fire happens, it gives very little escape time and death is imminent if escape route safety is compromised.