Bucks firefighters support national No Smoking Day (From Bucks Free Press)

Bucks firefighters support national No Smoking Day

9:38am Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News By Pete Grant

FIRE and Rescue teams across Bucks are supporting national No Smoking Day to remind people of the dangers of lighting up in the home.

Smoking accounts for a third of all accidental house fires resulting in death across England and Wales.

And firefighters are using today’s 30th annual No Smoking day to reiterate the risks, including smoking in bed and whilst drinking alcohol at home.

Community safety manager Roy Hocking said: “Although thankfully the number of people injured as a result of a smoking-related fire in our area was low, the risk of harm coming to anyone living in a smoker's property remains high.

“If you have recently given up smoking or are planning to give up on No Smoking Day, we wish you every success.”

Last year Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue responded to 29 smoking-related fires which resulted in three injuries.

To prevent the risks, firefighters are urging residents to follow some simple advice:

- Fit a smoke alarm, and test it weekly.

- Never smoke in bed, and take extra care if smoking when tired.

- Never leave lit cigarettes or pipes unattended.

- Always buy child-resistant lighters and matchboxes, and keep them out of reach.

- Avoid alcohol or drugs when smoking in the home, as it can cause loss of concentration.

Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service will carry out free safety check to identify potential fire risks in your home, advise what to do to reduce or prevent them and fit free smoke alarms if required.

Call 01296 744477 or email cs@bucksfire.gov.uk to book a visit.

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