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Smoking fire safety outreach materials

As a member of the fire service, you know all too well the dangers of unattended or improperly discarded smoking materials. Share these free resources to teach smokers about the importance of fire safety.

Digital media library

Here you’ll find social media content, pictographs, stock photos, videos and b-roll to increase awareness about fire safety for smokers and the people who live with them.

Explore the library
never smoke in bed

UPDATED REPORT

Electronic cigarette fires and explosions in the United States 2009 – 2016

Fires and explosions caused by e-cigarettes are not common, but their consequences can be devastating and life-altering for the victims. The main cause of the fires and explosions is failure of the lithium-ion batteries. Learn how e-cigarettes work, about recent fire and explosion incidents, and why the e-cigarette/lithium-ion battery combination presents a new and unique hazard to users.

Download the e-cigarette report
e-cigarette flyer
Download E-cigarette Fire Safety flyer

See Also

62 percent of the electronic cigarette explosion and fire incidents reviewed in this report occurred when the device was either in a pocket or actively in use.

Status of e-cigarette when the incident occurred
195 incidents

Smoking fire safety messages to share

It is important for smokers to know the steps they can take to keep themselves and their families safe from fire. Put these fire safety messages into your own words when talking to people about smoking and fire safety.

  • Smoke outside. Many things in your home can catch on fire if they touch something hot like a cigarette or ashes. It is always safer to smoke outside.
  • Put cigarettes out all the way. Do this every time. Don’t walk away from lit cigarettes and other smoking materials. Put water on the ashes and butts to make sure they are really out before you put them in the trash.
  • Be alert. Do not smoke after taking medicine that makes you tired. You may not be able to prevent or escape from a fire if you are sleepy or have taken medicine that makes you tired.
  • Never smoke around medical oxygen. Medical oxygen can explode if a flame or spark is near. Even if the oxygen is turned off, it can still catch on fire.
  • Never smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily. Do not smoke in bed because you might fall asleep with a lit cigarette.
  • Put your cigarette out in an ashtray or bucket with sand. Use ashtrays with a wide base so they won’t tip over and start a fire.

Outreach materials from the U.S. Fire Administration

Handouts and posters

up in smoke poster
Always Smoke Outside poster
Order Up in Smoke outreach materials

Door hangers

How to print after download

These hangers are easy to print and assemble on ready-made perforated door hanger templates that you can buy at your local or online office supply store. We recommend buying templates with the following specifications:

  • 90 lb. stock
  • 2-up on 8.5" x 11" sheet
  • 1.25" perforated hole (left in)
  • Microperforated between door hangers
  • Compatible with copiers, laser, inkjet and offset presses
smokers door hanger - English

Download and add your logo

smokers door hanger - bilingual

Download English/Spanish

Fire Prevention and Public Education Exchange

The Exchange is a collection of national, state and local fire prevention and life safety practices and public education materials you can share with your community. The materials can inspire new ideas and offer fire/life safety advocates immediate access to proven, effective tools. Visit the Exchange

Outreach materials from other organizations

USFA recommends the following organization as a trusted and reliable source for free outreach materials you can use to help increase awareness about smoking and fire safety in your community.

More resources on smoking and fire safety

NFPA Educational Messages Desk Reference – these messages provide fire and life safety educators with accurate and consistent language for use when offering safety information to the public.