At Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (AVFRD), we prioritize your safety and well-being. Smoking poses significant fire hazards and health risks, so we would like to share some important smoking safety tips with you:

1️⃣ No Smoking Indoors: Smoking indoors increases the risk of accidental fires. Always refrain from smoking inside your home, office, or any other indoor space. Instead, designate outdoor smoking areas away from flammable materials.

2️⃣ Proper Disposal of Cigarette Butts: Ensure cigarette butts are completely extinguished before discarding them. Use designated ashtrays or fire-safe containers for proper disposal. Never toss cigarette butts into vegetation, trash bins, or other flammable materials.

3️⃣ Keep Lighters and Matches Out of Reach: Store lighters and matches in a secure place out of children’s reach. Teach children about the dangers of playing with fire and the importance of fire safety.

4️⃣ Never Smoke in Bed: Falling asleep while smoking in bed is extremely dangerous and can lead to catastrophic fires. Always make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished before going to sleep or leaving the room.

5️⃣ Avoid Smoking Near Flammable Materials: Keep a safe distance from flammable substances such as gasoline, propane tanks, aerosol cans, and other combustible materials. Even a small spark can quickly ignite a fire.

6️⃣ Install Smoke Alarms: Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms on every level and near sleeping areas. Regularly test the alarms and replace batteries as needed.

7️⃣ Have a Fire Safety Plan: Prepare a fire safety plan for your household, including an escape route and a designated meeting point. Practice the plan regularly with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire emergency.

Remember, smoking safely is not only essential for your own well-being but also for the safety of those around you. By following these smoking safety guidelines, you can help prevent fires and protect lives.

Stay safe and smoke responsibly!

Sources:

  1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – Smoking Safety Link: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Smoking
  2. U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) – Smoking Fire Safety Link: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/at-risk-audiences/smoking/index.html