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News Release

Issued: 05.03.09
At: 2pm
For immediate release

Firefighters Urge Smokers to Extinguish the Risk

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) is urging all smokers to use National No Smoking Day, on 11 March, not only as a reason to give up but as a reminder of the dangers smoking has to their personal safety.

Smoking related fires are the biggest killers in accidental home fires. LFRS attended 63 fires last year that involved smoking materials, this equates to more than one fire a week. Nine people were injured and, unfortunately, two people died.

Paul Speight, Community Safety Officer, says:

“The best way to reduce your risk is to give up. However, for smokers finding it tough to kick the habit the advice from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service is to be cautious when smoking at home and to ‘put it out, right out’ after finishing a cigarette.“

“LFRS recommends that smokers always use a heavy ashtray that can’t easily tip over, never leave a lit cigarette or other smoking material unattended and fit and maintain working smoke alarms in your home.“

“We also urge you to never smoke in bed, falling asleep with a lit cigarette could lead to devastating consequences.“

“In the event of a fire, get out stay out and call 999.”

- ENDS -

Notes to News Desk

Interviews

Paul Speight is available for interview on request.

No Smoking Day Information

No Smoking Day is organised by the charity No Smoking Day. For more information and advice on giving up smoking and No Smoking Day visit:

See the No Smoking Day Website, click here

Contact Information

For more information please contact:
Corporate Communications
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
Tel 0116 287 2241