Chicago House Fire Lawyer

House Fires

According to statistics provided by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), someone in the United States dies in a house fire every three hours. In 2003, there were nearly 400,000 house fires nationwide, causing over 3,100 deaths, 13,650 injuries, and costing almost $6 billion in property damage. Young children are especially at risk from house fires, with a fatality rate twice as high as the national average.

Fires can injure or kill people in varying ways. While burn injuries caused by fires may be minor, requiring only basic first aid treatment, they may also be severe, life threatening injuries, resulting in lasting pain, disfigurement, and permanent disability.

Another danger of a house fire is smoke. Not only does smoke obscure the vision of people trapped in a burning structure, making it more difficult to escape, but it is also the most common cause of fire-related deaths. Statistics estimate that anywhere from 50% to 80% of all fire deaths are caused by smoke inhalation rather than burns.

The average American household is filled with potential fire hazards, with stoves, ovens, and fireplaces being the most obvious. However, common household cleaners/chemicals, faulty electrical wiring, and nearly all household appliances can also be the culprits in a house fire.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a house fire, contact the Chicago house fire lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake today at 312-466-8200.