Smoking

Alongside the health risk, fires caused by smoking result in more deaths than any other type of fire

 

The best way to stay safe is to not smoke. With lots of support available to help those who smoke quit through NHS Smoke Free and via 0300 123 1044, stopping will save you money to spend elsewhere, safefguard your health and prevent smoke caused fires.

 

  • It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.

 

  • Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.

 

  • Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.

 

  • Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.

 

  • Don't balance cigars or cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray or leave lit pipes or cigarettes unattended.  

 

  • Empty ashtrays carefully and make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin.

 

  • Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach, and buy child resistant lighters.

 

  • Never smoke if you use healthcare equipment like medical oxygen or an air flow pressure relief mattress. If you use paraffin-based emollient creams, ask for non-flammable alternatives instead.  

 

 

Did you know?

 

Smoking is the most common cause of fire fatalities. To learn more visit further guidance from the London Fire Brigade here