Fires in hospitals, nursing and senior citizens’ facilities as well as social accommodations continue to pose a significant danger. This is proven by the current fire statistics for 2025 from the Federal Association of Technical Fire Protection (bvfa). Although the number of victims has fallen compared to the previous year, the structural risk remains. According to the association’s assessment, the main reason is still the lack of use of automatic extinguishing systems.

What is particularly alarming is that almost all of the fatalities were in the immediate area where the fire started. This is precisely where effective technical protection is lacking in many facilities. Fire alarm systems detect fires early, but cannot prevent them from spreading. Without active extinguishing technology, minutes remain unused that would be vital to survival.

Figures show that the risk remains high

The statistics for 2025 clearly show the extent of the danger. Nationwide, 116 fires were registered in hospitals, resulting in four people dying and 129 being injured. There were 149 fires in nursing homes, senior citizens’ facilities and assisted living, with eleven deaths and 278 injuries. 84 fires were recorded in dormitories and social housing, with four deaths and 139 injuries.

Even though the number of victims in care facilities has fallen compared to the previous year, the situation remains critical. People with limited mobility who are unable to get to safety on their own in the event of a fire are particularly at risk.

Fires escalate quickly – especially in common areas

The most common causes of fire were again arson at around fifty percent and technical defects in electrical systems at around thirty percent. What is particularly problematic is that fires often start in patient rooms or common areas. There, fire and smoke develop into a life-threatening situation within just a few minutes.

A tragic example is the fire in the geriatric ward of Hamburg’s Marien Hospital in June 2025. Three people lost their lives. Despite the fire alarm system in place and the fire department’s rapid deployment, the spread of smoke and fire could not be stopped in time.

Automatic extinguishing systems work from the first minute

Automatic sprinkler systems come into play at exactly this point. They fight fires directly at the point of origin and usually limit their spread with one or two sprinklers. This significantly reduces the development of smoke, saves valuable time for evacuation and relieves the burden on staff. International studies demonstrate the high effectiveness of such systems, particularly in facilities with vulnerable people.

Demographic change increases the pressure to act

With the expected sharp increase in the number of older people and people in need of care, the responsibility to realign social facilities with fire protection is also growing. The bvfa therefore calls for the consistent use of active extinguishing technology. From a technical perspective, there is no longer any reason to do without automatic sprinkler systems, especially in new buildings. Technical fire protection thus becomes a central component for protecting the most vulnerable in society.