Five Jersey fires linked to smoking in last year, fire service warns

The warning was issued on No Smoking Day

Five fires have been linked to smoking in the last 12 months, Jersey Fire & Rescue Service has said.

Marking No Smoking Day, the service warned smoking killed and not just because of health risks.

Fire prevention lead, Mark Bailey-Walker said people should be aware of the dangers of smoking at home.

"Smoking in your home puts everyone at risk, not only from second-hand smoke, but also by increasing the risk of a smoking-related fire," he said.

The fire service said smoking-related fires were much less frequent than they had been in the past but it remained a risk.

Station commander Mr Bailey-Walker added: "These fires often involve mattresses, bedding, upholstered furniture, or rubbish which have been ignited from discarded cigarettes, ashes or matches.

"Often people think they have extinguished a cigarette, but it can carry on smouldering and cause a fire.

"No Smoking Day is an excellent opportunity for smokers to reflect on their habits and make changes that can improve the lives of them and their families."

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