State Fire Marshal Warns Of Smoking Related Fires In Golden Valley

Press release from the City of Golden Valley:

January 25, 2021

Last year, smoking was the leading cause of fatal fires in Minnesota according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS). Now the State Fire Marshal Division is working to raise awareness about the dangers of careless smoking.

Smoking related fires often occur when the smoker falls asleep while smoking. The lit cigarette falls from their fingers and lands on a combustible material like bedding, carpet, or other furniture.

If you do choose to smoke, please take these easy precautions.

• Smoke outdoors.
• Dispose of cigarette butts in a wide, deep, sturdy glass or metal ash tray.
• Do not use potted plants as an ashtray. Potting soil contains combustible materials that can ignite.
• Soak cigarette butts in water before placing in the garbage.
• Never smoke in a home where someone is using medical oxygen.

For more information, watch the video below and visit the DPS website.

This press release was produced by the City of Golden Valley. The views expressed here are the author’s own.