Fire-related deaths down 62% in Birmingham; department credits extensive training, smoke detectors

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – The Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service says the number of fire fatalities dropped by about 62% in 2025, and first responders say that’s because of the work they’ve done training firefighters and EMTs, along with a push to install smoke detectors in every home in Birmingham.

The department says there were eight fire-related deaths in 2024. They closed out 2025 with three. Leaders say one is still too many, but they call the drop a major step and something they’re working to keep improving.

They point to several efforts that all play a role, including the Arson Task Force, where Birmingham Fire and Rescue works with the Birmingham Police Department and ATF to determine whether fires were intentionally set…

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