You probably already know smoking is bad for your health and the health of those around you, but it can endanger you and your loved ones in another way---through fire. Though cigarettes account for only a small percentage of house fires in the U.S., the fires they start account for the most deaths of any cause type. Keep yourself and others safe by taking extra fire safety precautions when smoking.
Embers
When you don't discard a cigarette properly, loose embers that are hot can ignite when they come in contact with a flammable surface. Never throw a used cigarette in an indoor garbage can; instead, make sure the cigarette is thoroughly extinguished, and place in a metal or glass ashtray. The best option is a wide-rimmed "safety ashtray" with a deep center. Consider soaking cigarette butts in water before discarding in an outdoor garbage can, or even before letting them rest in the ashtray.
Falling Asleep
Smoking in bed is asking for trouble. If you get drowsy and nod off before you have a chance to properly extinguish your cigarette, it can easily land in the wrong place and ignite. Don't take cigarettes to your bedroom. Smoke standing or sitting up, in a different room, and take all precautions to put out your cigarette before going to bed.
Outdoor Fires
Improperly discarded cigarettes can cause fires outdoors as well as indoors. Whether it's a national park or your own backyard, remember what Smokey the Bear said: "Only you can prevent forest fires." Keep a can of water or sand nearby to extinguish cigarettes when you're enjoying the outdoors.
High-Risk Areas
It is unsafe to smoke in places where combustible or flammable materials are kept or in places with a large amount of sawdust, plastic or metal powders that may explode when ignited. Avoid smoking in garages, workshops and other places that may bear these hazards, and always obey "No Smoking" signs wherever you go.
