STOW, Mass. (WWLP)-- The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (DFS) says that about 75% of fatal fires in Massachusetts last year took place in residential settings. DFS preliminary data shows that of the 54 civilian fire deaths reported statewide in 2024, 40 happened in homes. A total of 55 people died from fire in Massachusetts last year, including 54 civilians and one firefighter who passed away due to injuries sustained in a prior-year fire. This is up from 45 fatalities in 2023. Fire officials urge safe heating as temps drop Fires in single-family homes accounted for 20 fatalities, while two-family homes accounted for five and multi-family homes accounted for 14. One person died in a manufactured home. The victims ranged from 9 to 93 years old and included three children under 18, 14 adults between 18 and 64, and 22 adults aged 65 or older. “We’re keenly aware that these statistics represent beloved family members, dear friends, and close neighbors,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “Our hearts go out to everyone who lost a loved one last year, and we hope promoting the data will help the public understand the common factors and prevent future tragedies.” According to DFS, unsafe use or disposal of smoking materials was the most likely cause in at least 12 fatal fires, triple the number from 2023. In five of those fires, home oxygen equipment was in the home. Fires caused by electrical events are believed to be the second leading cause, after smoking materials. Motor vehicles were the second-leading occupancy after dwellings, with eight fatalities. Four of these deaths were the result of fires that followed collisions. Another four took place in stationary vehicles. Six fire deaths took place outdoors, including three in tents or encampments occupied by people who had been living outside homes or shelters.