A recent report from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) shows that every year more than 7,500 residential fires are started by smoking in the United States.
Smoking Related Fires By The Numbers:
- 86% caused by cigarettes
- Cause an estimated average of 365 deaths, 925 injuries, and $326 million in property loss every year.
- Are a leading cause of fire deaths, accounting for 14% of fire deaths in residential buildings.
Click here to read the full report from the USFA.
Fire Safe Smoking Tips From The USFA
If You Smoke, Smoke Outside
- Most home fires caused by smoking materials start inside the home. It’s better to smoke outside.
Wherever You Smoke, Use Deep, Sturdy Ashtrays
- Use ashtrays with a wide, stable base that are hard to tip over. If it wobbles, it won’t work.
- Ashtrays should be set on something sturdy and hard to ignite, like a table.
- If you smoke outside, put your cigarettes out in a metal can filled with sand, that is at least three feet away from the house or anything that can burn.
Make Sure Cigarettes and Ashes are Out.
- Put It Out. All the Way. Every Time.
- The cigarette really needs to be completely stubbed out in the ashtray.
- Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash.
Check for Butts
- Chairs and sofas catch on fire fast and burn fast. Don’t put ashtrays on them. If people have been smoking in the home, check for cigarettes under cushions.
Never Smoke in a Home Where Oxygen is Used
- Never smoke while using oxygen or are anywhere near an oxygen source, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
If You Smoke, Fire-Safe Cigarettes are Better
- Fire-safe cigarettes are less likely to cause fires.
- These cigarettes have banded paper that can slow the burn of a cigarette that isn’t being used.
Be Alert
- To prevent a deadly fire, you have to be alert.
- If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.
- Smoking in bed is just plain wrong.