Fire Dept. Sees Increase In Cigarette-Related Incidents

LIBERTYVILLE, IL — The Libertyville Fire Department is reminding residents who smoke to make sure to properly extinguish their cigarettes. In recent weeks, the local fire department has responded to several incidents involving cigarettes that were not properly extinguished, according to a post on the Libertyville Fire Department Facebook page.

Smoking is the leading cause of deaths due to house fires for adults 65 years old and older, according to fire officials, and it is also the third leading cause of fire injuries for older adults.

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For those who smoke, the Libertyville Fire Department is offering the following tips to help keep yourself safe:

• If you smoke, smoke outside
• Never smoke in bed, while drowsy, or while under the influence of medication or alcohol
• Use deep, sturdy ashtrays
• Before you throw out your cigarette butts and ashes, make sure they are completely cool. Put them in water or a can that is filled with sand
• Check furniture and places where people smoke for smoldering cigarette butts and ashes—especially before going to bed
• Never smoke where medical oxygen is used, even if it is turned off
• Keep smoking materials, including lighters and cigarettes, up high and out of the reach of children
• Use child safety locks where you store your smoking materials

For more fire safety tips and news, follow the Libertyville Fire Department Facebook page.