The 2015 study by Cardil and Molina on the causes of death among firefighters in Spain between 1980 and 2010 highlights that entrapment is the most common cause of death. Although the study is very detailed and thorough in all the causes of death examined, the leading causes of fatalities are:
- Entrapment: Situations where firefighters become surrounded by fire with no possibility of escape, often due to rapid and unforeseen changes in the direction or intensity of the fire.
- Vehicle and aircraft accidents: Accidents during transit to or from fires, or the use of aircraft in firefighting, can result in fatalities.
- Falls: Falls from heights, for example, from cliffs or across uneven terrain, while fighting fires.
- Impact with trees or rocks: Falling trees and rocks are a significant risk, especially in wildfires in mountainous or densely wooded terrain.
- Exposure to Smoke and Flames: Smoke inhalation or direct exposure to flames can cause asphyxiation, severe burns, or death.
- Overexertion and Related Health Problems: Extreme physical exertion under extreme heat conditions can lead to critical health problems, such as heart attacks.
Entrapment is the most common cause of death, underscoring the importance of safety and prevention strategies, including training in decision-making in rapidly changing situations, the use of tracking and communication technologies, and the establishment of safety zones and clear escape routes. Furthermore, in the case of wildfires, the use of self-protection equipment such as the ISK Fire Survival® is important. Effective wildfire preparation and response requires a detailed understanding of all these potential causes of fatalities to minimize the risks to firefighters.