Fire fatalities in Ohio reach 25-year low in 2011

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The number of fire-related fatalities dropped nearly 18 percent from 2010 to 2011, according to the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Last year, there were 126 fire-related fatalities reported, compared to 153 fatal fires reported in 2010.

The reduction in fire fatalities is attributed to a number of efforts, including fire safety education programs, increased media attention to the need for working smoke alarms in homes, and innovative training for Ohio's firefighters.

"Smoke alarms are proven to save lives," said State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers in a news release. "I'm pleased by the efforts of Ohio's first responders, educators, journalists and citizens in raising awareness of the need for working smoke alarms which undoubtedly played a role in the reduction of fire deaths."

For example, in 2010, Lawrence County reported eight fire fatalities, the highest in Ohio. Firefighters in the county responded by giving out more than 250 smoke alarms and conducted more than 50 fire safety programs. Not one fire fatality was reported in Lawrence County in 2011.

More than 90 percent of Ohio's fire-related fatalities occurred in homes with no confirmed working smoke alarms, said Flowers.

The State Fire Marshal's Office recommends working smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside each bedroom. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly and alkaline batteries should be replaced twice a year. Smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years.

The previous low of 130 fire-related fatalities occurred in 2007.