Smoking
Careless smoking is a leading cause of fires in the home, making it essential to follow proper safety practices:
- Smoke outside.
- This is the safest option as it eliminates the risk of accidental fires caused by dropped cigarettes or ashes.
- Use sturdy, non-combustible ashtrays.
- Place them on a solid surface to prevent them tipping over. Avoid using makeshift containers like plastic or paper cups, as they can easily catch fire.
- Fully extinguish cigarette butts and ashes before discarding them.
- Cover them with water or sand in an approved ashtray to ensure they are completely out. Never dispose of them in rubbish bins without ensuring they are cold.
- Consider using fire-safe cigarettes.
- These are designed to self-extinguish when not actively smoked.
- Keep lighters, matches, and smoking materials away from flammable substances.
- This includes gasoline, cleaning solvents, and other flammable liquids.
- Teach children about the risk of smoking causing fires.
- Keep cigarettes, lighters, and matches out of their reach.
- Avoid smoking when under the influence of alcohol, medication, or drugs that impair your judgment or coordination.
The best way to reduce the risk of a smoking-related fire in your home is to go smoke free for good. Free stop smoking support is available to anyone aged 12+ who lives or works in Warwickshire, or is registered with a Warwickshire GP. You’re also three times more to go smoke free for good if you quit with your local stop smoking service.