What kills you in a fire?

Could you please elaborate on the factors that can potentially lead to fatalities in a fire? Are there specific hazards or conditions that increase the risk of death, such as the type of fuel burning, the speed of the fire's spread, or the availability of escape routes? Additionally, what role does smoke inhalation play in the cause of death during a fire, and how can individuals prepare themselves to minimize the risks associated with being caught in a blaze?