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PFSC-2026-04 Date: April 14, 2026 To: Municipal Authorities, Fire Chiefs, and Community Stakeholders From: Public Fire Safety Council (PFSC) Subject: Annual Assessment of Residential Fire Risks & Public Education Outcomes 1. Executive Summary The Public Fire Safety Council conducted its annual review of fire incident data, public surveys, and home safety inspections for Fiscal Year 2025. While overall fire-related fatalities decreased by 6% from the previous year, preventable residential fires remain the leading cause of home injury. Key findings indicate that aging electrical systems, improper lithium-ion battery charging, and the absence of home escape plans are critical risk factors. The Council recommends mandatory landlord-tenant fire safety disclosures and a targeted public awareness campaign on battery fire risks. 2. Key Findings | Indicator | 2024 Data | 2025 Data | Change | |-----------|-----------|-----------|--------| | Residential fires | 14,200 | 13,850 | -2.5% | | Fire-related deaths | 128 | 120 | -6% | | Injuries from fires | 1,450 | 1,520 | +4.8% | | Homes with working smoke alarms (surveyed) | 82% | 84% | +2% | | Homes with a practiced escape plan | 41% | 39% | -2% |

The PFSC will reconvene on May 15, 2026, to review municipal responses to these recommendations. A supplementary report on high-rise apartment fire drills is due Q3 2026. Submitted by: Dr. Elena Vasquez, Chair Public Fire Safety Council “Prevention is our first response.”

Funding sources: 70% municipal grants, 20% state fire prevention funds, 10% private donations. The Public Fire Safety Council concludes that while progress has been made in reducing deaths, the increase in injuries and persistent gaps in escape planning require renewed focus. Immediate adoption of the Council’s recommendations—particularly landlord accountability and lithium-ion battery education—could prevent an estimated 30–40 additional injuries annually.