In 1991, the first full year without the engine company, the number of fire-related deaths in its former response area doubled, from four to eight.
There were two fire-related deaths, far fewer than in the mid-1970's, when the annual figure peaked at 46.
But the number of fire-related deaths soared to as high as 310 in 1970, and averaged 234 in the 1980's.
Southeastern Queens has led the city in fire-related deaths, firefighters union officials have said.
Over all, fire-related deaths in the city have risen slightly in recent years, according to Fire Department statistics.
Inhalation of toxic fumes is the most common form of fire-related death.
Of the 4,465 fire-related deaths that year, 951, or 21 percent, were attributed to tobacco.
Under his watch, fire-related deaths were reduced to zero in 2 years.
Lighted cigarettes dropped on beds and couches are the leading cause of fire-related deaths in the state, killing nearly 50 people a year.
No firefighters died while fighting the fires in Yellowstone, though there were two fire-related deaths outside the park.