One of the most common causes of deaths in home fires is careless smoking. It has been estimated that 35% of all home fire deaths (about 1,500 a year) and 17% of all home fire injuries are caused by cigarette fires. Over $300 million in property is lost in these fires. Careless smoking is the #1 cause of fires in America. The Canton Fire Prevention Bureau recommends that precautions be taken to avoid a cigarette fire.

• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers.
• Do not place ashtrays on the arms of furniture.
• Most cigarette fires involve dropping a hot cigarette on beds or upholstered furniture or clothing. A lit cigarette can smolder for 20-30 minutes before igniting anything. Check furniture before going to bed. Never smoke in bed or while reclining in upholstered furniture.
• Make sure ashes are completely cold before emptying them. Try wetting ashtray contents before throwing them in the trash.
• Install extra smoke detectors in smokers' bedrooms and other areas they spend time in.
• The combination of smoking and drinking alcohol can be fatal. Keep an eye on those individuals in that condition.

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