Stub it out!

Firefighters from Hull Central Fire Station will be at St Stephen’s Shopping Centre on Wednesday 8 March to support No Smoking Day, a national campaign aimed at raising awareness of the risks of smoking.

According to the Head of Prevention, Sarah Wilkinson, “Smoking significantly increases the danger of fire and is the primary cause of fire-related deaths in the UK. Smoking related fires in the Humber region were found to be caused mainly by cigarettes not being stubbed out properly, with 88% of fires originating from this reason. It is important for individuals to consider the fire hazards associated with smoking and smoking materials as a motivating factor to quit.”

For smokers not ready to kick the habit this No Smoking Day, it is important to follow these smoking safety tips:

• Never smoke in bed
• Always use a proper ashtray, never put cigarettes directly into a bin
• Don’t leave a lit cigarette, cigar, or pipe lying around – they can easily fall over and start a fire
• Take extra care if you smoke when you are tired, taking prescription drugs or if you have been drinking
• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children

Never give up on giving up. Every time you try to stop smoking, you’re a step closer to success. For more information and support on stopping smoking, visit this NHS website:?https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/