Put it Out. All the Way. Every Time.
Smoking impacts every Oregonian. On average, 11 people in Oregon die each year from fires caused by smoking materials like cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco. Fires caused by smoking have also killed non-smokers living in the same home. These fires are easily preventable. Putting out cigarettes, cigars, and tobacco pipes the right way takes seconds. It is up to you to make sure they are put out, all the way, every time.
If you smoke or know someone who does, you can take simple steps to stay safe from fire.
Stay Fire Safe
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If you smoke, choose to smoke outside. Many items inside the home can catch fire if they touch something hot like a cigarette or ashes.
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Wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays, and place them away from anything that can burn.
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Always ensure that all butts and ashes are extinguished completely by using water before disposing in the trash.
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Post "No Smoking" and "No Open Flames" signs inside and outside the home to remind people not to smoke near medical oxygen.
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The primary cause of e-cigarette explosions and fires is failure of lithium-ion batteries. Always stay nearby when charging and unplug when fully charged.
What to Avoid
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Do not put cigarettes in any type of vegetation, including potted plants and landscaping, which can easily catch fire.
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Never go to bed before checking furniture and places where people smoke for smoldering butts.
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Do not smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can catch fire easily.
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Never have an open flame near medical oxygen. Learn more about medical oxygen safety from the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
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Keep cigarettes, lighters, and matches out of the reach of children. Remind them these are tools, not toys.
Let's Keep Those at Risk Safe
The risk of injury or death from smoking-related fires is higher for some Oregonians. Kids and teens, older adults, people with disabilities, those using medical oxygen, low-income Oregonians, and houseless people are at increased risk. At the Oregon State Fire Marshal, we know that collaboration and partnership create stronger, safer communities. With the support of our partners, and you, we can make our communities even safer.
Our Educational Resources
The Oregon State Fire Marshal has educational resources local fire agencies can order in English and Spanish. These resources can also be requested as a printable download in Russian, Chinese-Simplified, and Vietnamese. You may cobrand these documents by adding your organization's logo.
Order printed materials in English and Spanish here.
Email osfm.ce@osfm.oregon.gov to request other languages (PDF)
Where Can I Learn More?