We all know the long-term dangers of smoking. But Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has pointed out a much more short-term risk as it gets behind national No Smoking Day.
Smokers in Staffordshire are being warned of the safety risks linked to lighting up after shocking statistics revealed that cigarettes sparked almost 200 home fires in five years. Between January 1st 2011 and December 31st 2015 there were 191 residential blazes caused by cigarettes across the county.
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has released the latest figures in time for national No Smoking Day on Wednesday 9th March.
[box type=”shadow” align=”aligncenter” ]Station Manager in Central Prevent & Protect Dez Stoddart said: “The number of blazes caused by cigarettes in residential properties across Staffordshire has seen a significant decrease from 46 in 2014 to 32 in 2015. We believe that the prevention work we have carried out in order to raise awareness of the potential risks of smoking indoors has been key to this reduction. However, cigarettes, and smoking paraphernalia in general, are still among the highest causes of property fires in the county and we are determined to further reduce the number of incidents that are occurring.
“The best way to protect yourself and your family from becoming victims of a house fire involving cigarettes is quite simply, not to smoke them. There is a great deal of support out there for people who want to kick the habit and this is highlighted by the national No Smoking Day campaign. There are so many benefits to giving up smoking, you will not only reap associated health and financial gains you could also dramatically reduce your chances of experiencing a house fire. It is a win, win situation.”[/box]
[box type=”info” align=”aligncenter” ]No Smoking Day encourages people to kick the habit and has been running since 1983, when it was called ‘Quit for the Day’. The campaign is redesigned every year to help spur smokers into action. Click HERE for more information on No Smoking Day[/box]
