During a fire, what is the leading cause of death for individuals?

Breathing toxic gases is the leading cause of death during a fire because fires produce a variety of harmful smoke and gases, such as carbon monoxide, cyanide, and other toxic substances. When individuals are exposed to these gases, they can experience severe respiratory distress and suffocation, often leading to unconsciousness and death before they have a chance to escape the flames. While severe burns, falling debris, and panic can certainly contribute to fatalities during a fire, the inhalation of toxic fumes poses a significant and immediate danger, making it the primary cause of death in such situations. Understanding this can help in fire prevention strategies and training for evacuation procedures, emphasizing the importance of immediate response to smoke and gas exposure.