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State Fire Marshal: Fire-related deaths down in 2015

INDIANAPOLIS (WLFI) – Indiana has seen a decrease in fire-related deaths, and the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office is praising fire departments across the state for their efforts.

In 2015, 73 people were killed because of fires. However, that’s down from 84 deaths in the previous year. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security Division of Fire and Building Safety said it’s due to efforts of first responders working to keep Hoosiers safe.

Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson said he applauds first responders who work tirelessly day and night to protect those in danger.

“While we never want to see anyone injured or killed in a fire, we’re encouraged to see that fewer people were affected this year,” Greeson stated in a release.

Greeson said they not only protect those in danger, but also work to better educate their communities on fire safety.

Local fire departments along with the American Red Cross have offered smoke detectors to homeowners and installed more than 5,700 units throughout the state since October 2014.