Burning Concern: Why House Fires Are Rising in New York State — and What It Means for You

Across New York State, the number of residential fires — and the risks that come with them — are drawing renewed attention from fire officials, first responders, and the public. Whether you live in a quiet suburb or a bustling city neighborhood, understanding this trend is essential for keeping your home and loved ones safe.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

While national fire statistics show that home fires remain a major source of injury and property loss across the United States, local reporting suggests that certain regions — including New York — have seen notable increases in specific types of residential fires. Nationwide, hundreds of thousands of home fires are reported each year, and these incidents remain a leading cause of civilian injuries and property damage. Insurify

A 2025 safety report out of Greater New York highlights a dramatic 60% increase in residential fire responses for the region compared to a typical year, according to data from the American Red Cross. Red Cross This spike reflects not just more fire department calls, but more families affected by these dangerous incidents.

What’s Fueling the Rise? Common Causes of House Fires

Experts and fire prevention officials have pointed to several key drivers behind recent increases in house fires in New York:

🔥 Cooking Fires — Especially During Holidays

The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control notes that cooking remains the number one cause of home fires, with a particular surge around major holidays like Thanksgiving — when cooking distractions and busy kitchens create higher risk. Homeland Security Services National risk data also identifies New York among the states with some of the highest rates of residential cooking fires in the country. SafeHome.org

🔋 Lithium-Ion Batteries — A Modern Threat

New York City’s fire department has reported significant increases in structural fires tied to lithium-ion batteries, especially those used in electric bikes, scooters, and other personal devices. In 2025 alone, FDNY noted a major spike in these battery-related blazes and launched a “Take It Outside” safety campaign to encourage safer charging practices. FireRescue1

These batteries can ignite unexpectedly if damaged, improperly stored, or charged indoors — and once they go up, they burn intensely and spread quickly.

🏠 Aging Housing Stock & Older Systems

New York has many older homes that were built before modern fire safety codes were in place. Older wiring, outdated appliances, and aging heating systems can all increase fire risk, especially during winter months when heating and indoor cooking are more common. Local fire safety resources continually remind residents that smoke alarms and proper maintenance are lifesaving first defenses. Department of State

Who Is Most Affected? Patterns and Populations at Risk

While any household can experience a fire, some trends stand out:

• Holiday seasons and colder months consistently bring higher fire risk due to increased indoor cooking, heating system use, and busy family gatherings. Homeland Security Services

• Older adults and vulnerable populations have historically accounted for a disproportionate share of fire fatalities in New York, underscoring the importance of targeted prevention. Department of State

What’s Being Done — and What You Can Do

In response to rising fire incidents, local agencies and community groups are stepping up:

• The FDNY declared 2025 as “Fire Prevention Year,” expanding education and community outreach to reduce residential fire incidents through awareness, risk audits, and safety training. New York City Government

• Organizations like the American Red Cross continue widespread smoke alarm installation campaigns, helping make homes safer and saving lives. Red Cross

But prevention starts at home. Here are simple, practical steps every resident can take:

✅ Check and maintain smoke alarms — working alarms cut fire death risk significantly. Red Cross✅ Stay attentive in the kitchen, especially when frying or cooking at high heat. Homeland Security Services✅ Handle batteries with care — charge devices in well-ventilated areas outside of living spaces. FireRescue1✅ Have an escape plan and practice it with your household.