More Fire Prevention Tips From the Calgary Fire Department

Some of the most devastating and fatal fires in Calgary this year have been caused by improper disposal of smoking materials. The Calgary Fire Department would like to remind everyone that smoking-related fires are preventable.

"Over the holiday season, people get very busy, and perhaps aren’t as diligent as they could be when butting out cigarettes," said Carol Henke, Public Information Officer, Calgary Fire Department.

To ensure you have a safe and happy holiday season, the Calgary Fire Department advises: 

• Never smoke in bed or if you are drowsy or impaired. 
• If possible, always smoke outside and only use sturdy, deep ashtrays to hold and dispose of smoking materials.
• Ashtrays should be made of a material that cannot burn with a narrow opening so that smoking materials cannot fall out or get blown away by wind.
• Place ashtrays on sturdy, flat surfaces a safe distance away from materials that can burn.
• Always douse ashtray contents with water before discarding into the garbage.
• Never discard smoking materials in vegetation, plant pots or flower beds regardless of the season.
• Keep smoking materials such as lighters, matches, cigarettes, and cigars out of reach of children and in a secure place.
• Never leave a burning cigarette unattended.
• Do not smoke or allow others to smoke where medical oxygen is being used.

For more information about the Calgary Fire Department’s safety tips, visit: www.calgary.ca/fire.
 

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