West Springfield Health Department

Smoking materials are a leading cause of house fires.

As we enter the colder months and more people stay indoors, the risk of fires caused by smoking and smoking materials increases significantly.

WSFD is asking our community to take a moment to review these important safety reminders to help keep everyone safe this winter season.

Key Facts -

• Smoking materials (ci******es, ci**rs, pipes, lighters, matches) remain one of the leading causes of home fire deaths in the United States.
• Most of these fires start when someone falls asleep or improperly disposes of smoking materials.
• Fires involving smoking materials can spread fast and produce extremely toxic smoke.

SAFETY TIPS FOR SMOKING HOUSEHOLDS -

• Smoke Outside: Never smoke in bed, on a couch, or in a recliner where you can fall asleep.
• Use a Sturdy Ashtray: Heavy, deep ashtrays with a stable base prevent tipping.
• Fully Extinguish Ci******es: Douse cigarette butts and ashes in water or sand, not just the trash bin.
• Keep Smoking Materials Away From Oxygen: Never smoke when using medical oxygen—it can cause fires to ignite explosively.
• Protect Against Wind: If smoking outdoors, use a proper container. Wind can blow still-hot materials into dry landscaping or porches.
• Never Smoke Around Kids or Pets: They may accidentally knock something over or access matches and lighters.

HOME SAFETY REMINDERS -

• Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside every bedroom.
• Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible, and make sure everyone in the home knows how to use it.
• Have a home escape plan and practice it with your family.

Most smoking-related fires are preventable.

Please share this message and help us reduce the risk of smoking-related fires this winter.

Stay safe,
WSFD

V**e companies know exactly what they’re doing. With colorful packaging, candy-inspired flavors, and influencer-style marketing, they make products look fun, harmless, and “normal” — especially to teens. But behind every “blue razz” or “cotton candy” flavor is a highly addictive substance: ni****ne.

Parents and caregivers can be the strongest line of defense. Learn how to talk with your kids about how these tactics are designed to hook them early and keep them addicted. Small, honest conversations can make a lasting difference.

Find practical tips for starting the conversation: nyc.gov/vaping

Before you plug in those lights—check your tree’s location. Keep it away from heat sources and exits, and make sure it gets watered daily.

More tips at nfpa.org/holiday

Operation Santa Toy Drive Event and Live Musical Performance by This Close to Barberic! Bring a new, unwrapped toy or make a cash donation.

Open to the Public!
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Time: 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Dante Club, 1198 Memorial Ave, West Springfield