A methodology is outlined for collating fire fatality data from the Fire Incident Recording System and New Zealand Health Information Service and linking with coroners’ files to provide a comprehensive account of fire-related deaths in New Zealanders under 15 years in domestic fire incidents.

The study finds high risk rates for males, and particularly Maori. The most common heat sources involved in fatalities among children are lighters and matches. While most fatalities occurred in permanent private dwellings, a significant number are found to have occurred in temporary accommodation. A significant identified risk factor is when children are either visiting an unfamiliar house, or there are visitors to the family home. Operating smoke alarms were not present in nearly every incident involving fatalities among children.