Smoking

Fires caused by smoking materials cause more deaths than any other type of fire.

Last updated: 19th March, 2024

Fires caused by smoking materials result in more deaths than any other type of fire. This is despite the overall number of people smoking cigarettes or tobacco falling.

What TO Do

Always fully extinguish cigarettes or other smoking materials, especially when leaving the room
Use a purpose made, heavy ashtray that cannot tip over easily and is made of a material that will not burn. Consider using a safety ashtray within your home
Empty ashtrays regularly outside.
Fit smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly. A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999
Consider requesting a Home Fire Safety Visit to review fire precautions within your home and receive additional advice and guidance

What NOT To Do

Do not buy illegal cigarettes or tobacco as they are unlikely to comply with fire safety standards
Do not smoke in bed
Do not smoke when tired. Falling asleep with a lit cigarette could lead to it falling and causing furniture to catch light
Do not smoke under the influence of medication, drugs or alcohol, which may affect your ability to react or escape if a fire occurs

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Smoking

What TO Do

What NOT To Do

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