What is the number one cause of deaths at incidents?

Overexertion is the leading cause of deaths at incidents, particularly in firefighting and emergency response scenarios. This factor encompasses a range of situations where responders may push themselves beyond their physical limits, leading to serious health issues such as heart attacks or heat-related illnesses. During high-stress incidents, the physical demands placed on responders can be immense, and the combination of intense exertion and the environmental challenges they face can significantly increase the risk of fatal outcomes.

Understanding this statistic highlights the crucial importance of monitoring physical fitness, recognizing early signs of fatigue, and implementing strategies to manage workload effectively. Emphasizing proper hydration, rest breaks, and team support can mitigate the risks associated with overexertion and enhance overall incident safety.