Fishers firefighter warns smoking can pose great risk

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Dear Editor,

Every year, firefighters respond to a multitude of hazards, and 2020 has been no exception. As an all-hazards organization, the Fishers Fire Department continues to lead the way in mitigating threats faced by our community as well as educating the public on ways to lessen fire related risks.

One threat that continues to pose a great risk to life and property is that of unattended or improperly discarded smoking materials. On any given day, we encounter improperly discarded smoking materials in mulch beds, flowerpots, and trash cans. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths with an estimated property dollar loss of $320,000,000.

Although our fire stations are strategically located to provide the fastest, most qualified service to the public, this is a battle we cannot fight alone, so we are asking for your help.

If you are a smoker, please stop. We all know the health risks posed by tobacco and how our quality of life is affected in the long term. Additionally, many things in your home can catch on fire if they touch something hot like a cigarette or ashes. For this reason, if you are going to smoke, smoke outside. Your non-smoking neighbor and their pets will thank you. We also ask that you put water on the ashes and butts to make sure they are out before you put them in the trash. Never smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily. Lastly, 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.

As you can see, unattended or improperly discarded smoking materials pose a great risk to the wellbeing of the community – whether it is to life or property. Regardless of the hazard, rest assured your friendly, neighborhood firefighters are at the ready to affirm our oath to save lives and preserve property.

Will Ortiz

Fishers Fire Department

Firefighter/Deputy PIO