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 aged between 15 and 64 years in domestic fire incidents.

The study finds high risk rates for males, and particularly Maori. The most common fire scenarios are unattended cooking materials igniting on a stove top or in an oven, and smoking materials igniting combustibles. Alcohol is a probable factor in most of the fatal incidents for this age group. Another significant factor identified in the study is disruption to usual routine for the deceased, including attendance at a social function, returning home after midnight, being away from home or having overnight guests. Other identified risk factors are temporary accommodation, and the absence of smoke alarms.