Put it out, right out.
That’s the advice to smokers in Gedling borough from our fire service.
It’s part of their Fire Kills campaign.
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging smokers across the borough to rethink their routine after it was revealed cigarettes accounted for 565 of the 1,539 fire fatalities in England since 2010.
Paul Gair, station manager in the Service’s Prevention Team, said: “As a Service, we cannot tell people to stop smoking, but can instead encourage smokers to do it safely.
“It is very important that if you smoke, or you care for someone who smokes, that cigarettes are always extinguished and disposed of safely, as failing to do so can cause the ignition of items in your home.
“Sadly, fatalities due to smoking do occur, but by following our advice, you can minimise the risk of being affected by fire by following our safe smoking tips.
“Remember, always put it out, right out.”
Whether you or a loved one smokes, or you care for someone who does, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has put together some key advice below.
A cigarette before bed:
- Tiredness and smoking do not mix – unextinguished cigarettes can ignite, especially if you fall asleep.
- If you have an airflow mattress it is important not to smoke in bed. This is because if punctured, the air can accelerate fire.
Smoking after a few drinks:
- Consuming alcohol or prescription drugs can cause tiredness. Mix this with smoking and the consequences can be fatal.
- Avoid dropping cigarettes while tired by never smoking and drinking.
Lighting up in your living room:
- Always use a proper ashtray and never a wastepaper basket.
- Never let ashtrays overflow.
- Don’t leave a lit cigarette lying around.
- Smoking outside can limit the risk but you should always make sure you put it out, right out, before going back inside.
