Fire is a rapid, persistent chemical reaction that releases heat and light, especially the exothermic combination of a combustible substance with oxygen.  A fire is categorized as both a natural and a technological hazard that occurs both in outside and inside.

Structure fires are categorized as Residential, Public/Mercantile and Industrial/Manufacturing/ Other Buildings.  A second category of fires is vehicle fires including aircraft, boats, trucks, busses, automobiles and trains.

• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires.  It is also the leading cause of home fire injuries. Cooking fires often result from unattended cooking and human error, rather than mechanical failure of stoves or ovens.
• Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths.  Smoke alarms and smolder-resistant bedding and upholstered furniture are significant fire deterrents.

Arson is both the second leading cause of residential fires and residential fire deaths. In commercial properties, arson is the major cause of deaths, injuries and dollar loss.

Heating is the third leading cause of residential fires. Heating fires are a larger problem in single family homes than in apartments. Unlike apartments, the heating systems in single family homes are often not professionally maintained.

History

In 2002 St. Louis County had 1,186 fire runs and a total of $6,296,619 loss as a result of fires. The average fire loss was $6,066. There were three deaths in 2002 as a result of fire. The fire rate is 193 or one fire for every 193 citizens in the County.