Fire Safety

Classes:
Introduction > Take the Test > Fire Prevention > Be Prepared > Special Considerations > Smoking and Fires > Fire Safety Quick List

---

Smoking and Fires

Smoking is not only dangerous to your health because it causes cancer, it is also the number one cause of fires. Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths. The simplest and best way to avoid these fires is to stop smoking or just not start.

However, if you are a smoker or live with one, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk of fire.

• Don't smoke in bed.
• Never leave burning cigarettes unattended.
• Don't empty recently used ashtrays into a trashcan or other container.
  You might be surprised how long it takes for ashes, cigarette butts, or matches to cool down.
• Don't smoke around flammable materials.
  Don't smoke around gas, paints, aerosol cans, newspapers, and other flammable objects.
• Keep ashtrays away from flammable objects and windows or breezes.
• When smoking outside, dispose of cigarettes and matches properly.
  Use ashtrays or have a dish of water handy. Don't just toss away your match or cigarette butt. This is how forest fires have started. If any item is too hot for you to touch with your finger, it is too hot to be thrown away. This applies for motorists as well -- a match or cigarette tossed out a car window can not only start an outdoors fire, but it can also fly into back windows or other vehicle, causing accidents.
• Show consideration and caution around children.
  Not only are you increasing their risk of cancer by exposing them to your smoke, you are also setting a bad example. Be sure children know the dangers of smoking - both health and fire. If there are children in your household (or visiting), be sure to keep your cigarettes, lighters, and matches out of reach.

Next: Fire Safety: Recap

---