Smoking

The respiratory health hazards of smoking are well-publicized, but a lesser-known fact is that smoking materials are the leading cause of fire-related deaths in the U.S. The most commonly ignited items in these fatal fires are mattresses and bedding, upholstered furniture, and floor coverings.

Smoking Fire Safety

• Smoke outside, so you Do not put others at risk
• Never smoke in bed
• Never smoke in an area where oxygen tanks are being used
• Don’t smoke if you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine or other drugs that impair your ability to handle smoking materials correctly
• Use deep, wide ashtrays on a sturdy surface
• Make sure butts and ashes are extinguished by soaking them in water before discarding them
• Check under furniture cushions, and in other places people smoke, for butts and ashes that may have fallen out of sight
• Keep matches and lighters out of children’s sight and reach
• Consider using fire-safe cigarettes, which are less likely to cause fires