Understanding the Fire Hazards of Tobacco Products
Discover the hidden dangers of tobacco products as we delve in the often-overlooked fire hazards they pose. Stay informed to protect you and your loved ones from the possible fire risks that come with tobacco use.
In 2023, there were 120 fire incidents linked to cigarettes in the state of Utah. Nationwide, house fires from smoking made up roughly 7,800 incidents, resulting in 275 deaths, 750 injuries, and staggering losses of $360 million by 2021, as reported by the U.S. Fire Administration. These statistics shed light on the often-underestimated fire hazards that come with tobacco products, which prompted us to explore their risks and dangers.
The fire hazards of tobacco products
One of the most significant hazards posed by tobacco products, as highlighted by Education Program Coordinator, Andrew McCormick, from the Utah State Fire Marshal’s Office, is the risk they pose to people who use oxygen in homes. Lit cigarettes within five feet of the oxygen are a huge risk for an explosion.
But, the tobacco products themselves are not the only threat. McCormick emphasizes, “The second issue, besides cigarettes, is whatever is used to light your cigarette,” including lighters or matches. Despite household fires mostly occurring in kitchens, such as unattended cooking, smoking-related incidents still account for around 5% of residential fires, a statistic McCormick deems “still a significant number.”
Regulatory measures even with fire-safe cigarettes
Discussing fire-safe cigarettes and regulatory efforts, data from the National Fire Protection Association reveals a promising trend. From 2003 to 2010, civilian deaths in smoking-related fires decreased by an average of 21% due to fire-safe cigarettes. However, McCormick dispels a common misconception, stating, “Some people think that just because they have fire-safe cigarettes, they can just leave them burning and watch [them] go out in the ashtray.” Proper disposal includes putting cigarettes out completely, minimizing ashtray contents, and using metal cans for final disposal.
Mitigating risks associated with smoking
McCormick emphasizes the importance of people who smoke minimizing risks, especially when combined with alcohol consumption or medical use. He warns, “A really bad combination is smoking and drinking alcohol or using other medications that can make you tired or out of it enough to make mistakes with fire.”
Another piece of guidance is to never smoke in bed. Bedding is often a substantial fuel source for home fires and can ignite faster than you think. And, even if you only smoke outside, try to avoid dry grass, leaves, and being near gasoline. In 120 Utah fire incidents, 38 were coded as caused by “cigarette,” and 82 were coded as, “cigarette lighter/matches.” Advising people who smoke to smoke outside significantly reduces risks, although caution is urged, of the 38 cigarette-caused fires, more than 80% were outside.
Smoking-material fires that start outside the home usually originate from planters or butt cans where people discard their cigarettes. With regard to the latter, what happens is that all the paper and filters from the old cigarettes act as fuel and begin to smolder. When the wind picks up, the oxygen level increases and the fire transitions to open flame.
Vaping is not in the clear
McCormick underscores emerging concerns that vaping eliminates fire hazards. “We are seeing a huge trend of lithium-ion batteries causing fires nationwide,” he notes. Legislative and educational efforts are underway to address this growing threat, emphasizing the dangers of using incorrect chargers and overcharging devices, which can lead to overheating and explosions.
Promoting health and safety Way to Quit encourages harm reduction strategies for those who continue to use tobacco and nicotine products. By remaining cautious, practicing safe disposal methods, and staying informed, we can significantly reduce the risk of fire incidents linked to tobacco consumption.
