NO butts — smoking kills so 'kiss it goodbye'. That is the lifesaving message from the Devon Fire and Rescue Service.
Tavistock's community fire officer Tim Smith and fellow fire officers were in Bedford Square yesterday (Wednesday) to support National No Smoking Day.
'We are underlining the health authority's message that there is more than one way to kill yourself with a cigarette,' said Tim.
He said fires had often been started by people falling asleep in bed or on the settee with a lighted cigarette. And statistics show fires are 75 per cent more frequent in homes where a smoker lives than a non-smoker.
'Only five per cent of people die from their burns — 95 per cent die from asphyxiation first,' he said.
'People do dangerous things while smoking. They have filled petrol tanks with cigarettes in their mouth. I heard of one car mechanic who dropped a petrol tank and got covered in petrol — he then lit a cigarette and ignited.'
Tim said it is important for smokers to be aware of carelessly placed cigarettes, not to smoke in bed, always ensure smoking materials are properly extinguished and remember to check ashtrays before emptying. He also advises people who have not got them to get fire alarms fitted.
He says more and more people are now giving up smoking. 'This year five firemen in Tavistock have given up smoking — and I'm one of them.
'I gave up because I was feeling unhealthy. I'm at the right age for a coronary. It's the time of life to pack up smoking otherwise I could have a heart attack.'
Tim and his fellow firemen are always willing to give advice on fire prevention. Further information about fire prevention can be obtained by ringing Community Fire Safety Officer Ian Richards on 01392 872357.