North Reading FD: Properly Dispose Of Smoking Materials

NORTH READING, MA — North Reading fire officials are warning residents to properly dispose of smoking materials and ashes to prevent fires.

“It’s not uncommon for communities to experience drier conditions in the lead up to spring,” Fire Chief Jon Stats said. “As a result, it’s important that you always properly dispose of all smoking materials, or ashes from your fireplace or outdoor fire. These small steps can go a long way toward keeping you and your community safe.”

A house fire in December was caused by the improper disposal of smoking materials, according to the state fire marshal. The fire spread from the porch of the Lowell Road home and into the rooms, causing $50,000 of damage. Three residents were inside but an off-duty North Reading police sergeant helped rescue them before firefighters came.

The North Reading Fire Department offered the following tips:

• Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes into bushes, mulch or grassy areas that can easily catch fire.
• Throwing cigarettes on the ground is considered littering.
• Fully extinguish cigarettes in an ashtray or a non-combustible container.
• Soak cigarette butts in water before throwing them away.
• If smoking inside, do not place ashtrays on combustible surfaces.

Open burning will end on May 1. Residents should be careful when using an open flame during adverse weather conditions.