6 precautionary measures to reduce the risks of smoking-related fires

1. Stop smoking

Easier said than done, but it’s the easiest way to reduce the risk of fires caused by cigarettes. There are many other benefits of quitting smoking, including an improvement of your overall health and maybe even a decrease of your home insurance premiums.

2. Make sure your home is equipped with smoke detectors and keep them in good condition

• Install the detectors near the bedrooms.
• Check the batteries and replace them every 6 months.
• Replace your detectors every 10 years.

3. There’s a right time and place to smoke

Smoke outdoors, in an area protected from wind and equipped with deep and stable ashtrays.

Never smoke:

• When you’re tired or have taken medication or consumed any alcohol. If you fall asleep, you’re likely to start a fire.
• On a mattress or couch because the material is highly flammable.
• Close to flammable products Since these types of products are often used in renovation work, always smoke outside if renovation work is in progress.

4. Never leave lit cigarettes unattended

If you must leave, put out all cigarettes, even if it’s in an ashtray.

5. Keep matches, lighters, cigarettes and other smoking products away from the reach of children

This may sound obvious, but make sure you keep all smoking paraphernalia away from children’s reach, including cigarettes, pipes, cigars, matches, lighters, candles, etc.

6. Dispose of ashes and stubs properly

• Always place your ashes and stubs in safe ashtrays, both indoors and out. The ashtray should be stable and designed to keep the ashes within the ashtray.
• Always pour water over the stubs before disposing of your ashes in the trash.
• Never place stubs in a flower pot or flower bed. The mulch and potting soil can be highly flammable.

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