Bangladesh experienced an alarming average of 73 fire incidents daily in 2024, according to the Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) annual report released on Tuesday.

A total of 26,659 fire incidents were recorded across the country, resulting in 142 fatalities, including two firefighters, and injuries to 378 individuals, of whom 37 were firefighters. The fires caused property damage estimated at over Tk446.27 crore.

Adding to the challenges faced by FSCD, mobs set fire to eight fire service vehicles and vandalised 34 others during operations.

Electrical short-circuits emerged as the primary cause, accounting for 33.98% of the fires, followed by incidents stemming from burnt bidi and cigarette butts at 15.52%. Fires originating from stoves contributed to 11.46%. Gas-related issues, including cylinder leaks, gas line leaks and cylinder explosions, were also significant contributors. Other causes included acts of arson, children playing with fire, burnt ashes, and fireworks.

Residential properties bore the brunt of the damages, with 7,131 house fires reported, representing 26.74% of the total. Other affected areas included haystacks, kitchens, shops, bazaars, shopping malls, factories, religious establishments and slums. Vehicles, including buses, trains and launches, were also affected by fire incidents.

The monthly breakdown revealed that March and April were the peak months for fires, with 3,421 and 3,426 incidents respectively, while January recorded 2,514 incidents. In comparison, 27,624 fires were reported in 2023, slightly higher than the 24,102 recorded in 2022.

Despite the FSCD’s continued efforts to mitigate fire risks, the report underscores the urgent need for enhanced fire safety measures and public awareness to prevent such devastating incidents.