​Learn how to reduce the risk of fires because of smoking


Smoking is a fire risk

smoking is the leading cause of fatal fires in homes. You can reduce the risk by:

  • Extinguishing cigarettes fully in an ashtray.
  • Dousing cigarette and cigar ends with water before disposing of them, preferably in an outdoor bin.
  • Never leaving a lit cigarette, cigar, or pipe unattended.
  • Avoiding placing cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray.
  • Never emptying a pipe directly into a bin.
Ashtray safety
  • Using a proper ashtray is an important step in preventing fires caused by smoking.
  • Regularly empty and clean your ashtray and always pour water over its contents before disposing of them. Whenever possible, use a metal bin outside for disposal.
  • Make sure to keep paper and other flammable materials away from your ashtray.