The Quinte West Fire Department is reminding the public about the dangers of careless smoking after multiple incidents in the last week.
Fire Chief John Whelan says three house fires in which careless smoking is the suspected cause were “100% preventable.” The fire department also reported that there was one fatality in one of the fires. Whelan was treated for smoke inhalation after helping rescue a person from a smoke filled residence.
As a result of the recent uptick in smoking related fires, the Quinte West Fire Department has released a list of safety reminders with regards to smoking.
- Smoke outside whenever possible.
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Never smoke in bed or when you are feeling drowsy or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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Never smoke while using assisted oxygen devices.
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Dispose of smoking materials properly. Use sturdy, deep ashtrays and make sure cigarette butts and ashes are fully out. Never discard your smoking material in garbage, potted flowerpots or beds, recycling or other plastic containers.
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It is best to dispose of cigarettes in a bucket of sand or water.
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Before going to sleep, check under and around sofa cushions and upholstered furniture for smouldering cigarettes.
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Keep matches, lighters and smoking materials out of the reach of children – up high and preferably locked up and never unattended.
