In fire events, which of the following is considered the most common killer?

Smoke and gases are considered the most common killers in fire events due to the lethal effects of inhalation and the physiological impact on the body. When a fire occurs, it produces not just flames, but also a significant amount of smoke and toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and other harmful byproducts of combustion.

Inhalation of smoke and toxic gases can lead to asphyxiation and unconsciousness much more rapidly than burns or physical injuries from flames. Furthermore, smoke can obscure visibility and create panic, making evacuation more difficult and increasing the likelihood of fatal outcomes. While flames, heat, and burns are certainly dangerous and can cause injuries, it is the smoke and gases that account for the majority of fire-related fatalities. This highlights the critical importance of fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors and proper ventilation, to mitigate the risks associated with smoke inhalation during fire emergencies.