The distribution and characteristics of workplace injuries fm West Virginia
volunteer fire fighfers (VFFs) are described using 1992 workers' compensat
ion data. Most of the injuries occurred in VFFs who were less than 30 years
of age (62 %). The most common type of injuries were those in the category
of lacerations and contusions (28.9%), with a notable percentage of injuri
es due to smoke inhalation and respiratory problems (13.7%). The proportion
al rates related to falls in VFFs were almost twice the national figures fo
r the same year (39.3% versus 22.3%). County population. density was found
to be directly associated with injury rates, even when adjusted for number
of responses, Claims statistics mirror a similar geographical trend in over
all workers' compensation claims for all injuries in West Virginia. The res
ults of this study provide a foundation for additional follow-up studies in
order to develop improved occupational safety policies and target educatio
nal programs aimed at the prevention of injuries in volunteer fire fighters
. Several findings have already resulted in programmatic recommendations.