Thursday 4 March
12.00hrs
Smokers will no doubt hear many messages about the dangers of
smoking to their health during this year’s No Smoking Day
(Wednesday 10 March).
But Avon Fire & Rescue Service wants local people to
consider the less obvious dangers to their health.
According to government statistics, people who smoke are at
greater risk of dying from a fire in their home than those who
don’t.
Many of these deaths could have been avoided if a few simple
safety steps were taken, said Station Manager Steve Bagg, Deputy
Head of Community Safety.
He added: “Since January we have attended on average around
three house fires a month started by cigarettes and smoking
materials.
“That might not sound like a lot, but these are fires that could
have been avoided.
“So, the simple answer is not to smoke in the house, or not to
smoke at all. But if you are going to smoke indoors, please do it
safely.”
Smokers can reduce their risk of house fires by following these
simple tips:
- Don’t smoke in bed.
- Take extra care if you’re feeling tired, have been drinking or
are taking prescription drugs. Many fires are started by people who
have fallen asleep and not realised that a cigarette is still
burning.
- Use a deep, heavy ashtray, made from a non-flammable material.
And never tap your ash into a wastepaper basket.
- Don’t leave a cigarette, cigar or pipe lying around. They can
easily overbalance as they burn down and can start a fire by
landing on carpet or a newspaper.
- Keep lighters and matches out of reach of children.
For more information on staying
safe at home visit our Your safety pages.