Smoking ban could help save lives
Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service welcomes the introduction of a smoking ban in public places, (1 July 2007) as a move to improve people’s health.
More people die in smoking-material related fires than any other. Nearly a third of all households in England include a smoker and these households are nearly 35% more likely to have a fire than non-smoking homes. In the UK between 2000 and 2005 there were on average 132 deaths per year in accidental home fires caused by smoking materials.
Area Risk Manager, Simon Ellershaw said: "With smoking being banned in public places, it is likely that people will start to smoke more in their own homes, therefore increasing the risk of having a fire. In light of this it is essential to take steps to help to reduce that risk."
These include:
Never leave a lit cigarette unattended
Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished before throwing them away
Use a sealed ashtray instead of a regular bin
Do not smoke in bed
Avoid smoking late in the evening, especially if you are tired or have been drinking, as this is most likely time for causing accidental fires
Ask guests to smoke in one room where the risks can be better managed and monitored, or even better, outside in the garden
Keep matches and lighters well out of the reach of children
“One of the most important items you should have in your home whether you smoke or not is a working smoke alarm! A smoke alarm should be fitted on each level of your home and kept in good working order. Without one you may never hear another sound again!”