My son has been on the starting line with T/F & F/C's for 27 years and has yet to have any incidents. Sure, there can always be unforseen things that happen, but these kids are professionals....it's what they do for a living. The new guys get instructions on what to and not do on the starting line.
As has been previously posted, drag racing, like any form of motor sports, has it's dangers. That's why many guys love it so much. But, imho they know the risks and accept the challenges.