The Hidden Danger of Thick Smoke: Why It's Deadlier Than Fire

Many people assume that fire victims die from burns, but statistics show otherwise. In fact, about 80% of fire-related deaths are caused by smoke inhalation rather than flames. This means that in a fire, the real number-one killer is thick smoke.

Why Is Thick Smoke the Deadliest Threat in a Fire?

The primary cause of smoke-related deaths is carbon monoxide poisoning. In an environment with a 1.3% concentration of carbon monoxide, a person can lose consciousness after just 2-3 breaths, and death can occur within 13 minutes of exposure.

Common building materials, when burned, can produce smoke containing up to 2.5% carbon monoxide. Additionally, fire smoke contains high concentrations of carbon dioxide. More dangerously, materials like PVC, nylon, wool, silk and other fibrous items generate highly toxic gases when burned, posing an even greater threat to human life.

When a fire breaks out, people tend to panic in the face of billowing smoke, which may cause them to miss the golden window for escape. Remember the "Three Taboos" and "Four Essentials" of fire evacuation.