Action Steps

If You Smoke, Smoke Outside

Most home fires caused by smoking materials start inside the home. It's better to smoke outside. If you smoke outside, put your cigarettes out in a can filled with sand.

Play Video - Putting cigarette out in can of sand. Photograph of a man smoking outside. Photograph of a cigarette extinguished in a can of sand.

Wherever You Smoke, Use Deep, Sturdy Ashtrays

Use ashtrays with a wide, stable base that are hard to tip over. If it wobbles, it won't work.

Photograph of a deep ashtray.

Make Sure Cigarettes and Ashes Are Out

The cigarette really needs to be completely stubbed out in an ashtray. Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.

Play Video - Stubbing cigarette out in ashtray. Play Video - Soaking cigarette butt under water. Photograph of cigarettes in an ashtray being soaked under running water.

Check for Butts

Chairs and sofas catch on fire fast and burn fast. Don't put ashtrays on them. If people have been smoking in the home, check for cigarettes under cushions.

Play Video - Demonstration of home smoking fire. Picture of a couch with a cigarette on it. Picture of a couch fire started with a cigarette.

Put It Out. All the Way. Every Time.

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