Smoking materials are one of the most dangerous causes of fires in the home. Fires often start when cigarettes are not fully put out or when someone falls asleep while smoking.
- If you smoke, the safest option is to smoke outside.
- Never smoke in bed, on a sofa or in an armchair if you think you might fall asleep.
- Take extra care if you are tired, drinking alcohol, or taking medication that makes you drowsy.
- Use a deep, heavy ashtray that cannot be tipped over easily.
- Make sure cigarettes, cigars, and pipes are fully out before disposal.
- Test smoke alarms regularly and keep a simple escape plan in mind.
Safer smoking habits and disposal
Avoid leaving lit cigarettes, cigars or pipes unattended. Do not leave smoking materials on the edge of an ashtray where they could fall out as they burn. Empty ashtrays carefully and make sure contents are cold before disposal.
Night-time fire risk
Smoking-related fires are especially dangerous at night when people are asleep. Never smoke in bed and avoid smoking when you are very tired or have been drinking alcohol.
Smoking and specialist health needs
Never smoke or vape when using medical oxygen or close to oxygen equipment. Take extra care if clothing, bedding, dressings or furniture may be affected by emollient creams or skin treatments.
Vapes and e-cigarettes
If you use a vape or e-cigarette, only use the correct charger, charge it on a hard surface, and do not leave it charging overnight.
Stop smoking support
If you are ready to quit, free stop smoking support is available through NHS stop smoking services and Smokefree Hertfordshire.