Chattanooga Fire Department Stresses Dangers Of Smoking In Bed

The Chattanooga Fire Department is asking members of the public to refrain from smoking in bed after two recent house fires that were caused by the dangerous act.

On Saturday (10/15/22), firefighters responded to a home in the 2500 block of Maple Street. Fire and smoke were coming from the structure and defensive operations were initiated for safety reasons due to multiple rounds of ammunition cooking off and an explosion from one of the oxygen tanks inside the home. Crews remained on scene for several hours working to extinguish the fire. The structure was a total loss. Four adults were displaced and received assistance from the American Red Cross. One occupant sustained burns and another suffered smoke inhalation. They were treated at the hospital for what appeared to be minor injuries. Then on Sunday night (10/16/22), firefighters responded to an apartment fire at College Hill Courts in the 600 block of W 13 Street Court. A mattress had caught fire and spread to the curtains and walls. On arrival, crews found heavy fire showing out the front windows of a downstairs unit and an interior attack was made. Firefighting operations and a simultaneous search of the apartment and surrounding units were conducted. The residents were all outside upon CFD’s arrival and there were no injuries. The fire was under control in ten minutes and it was contained to the mattress, bedding and walls in the original apartment.

In both incidents, the fires were accidentally started by someone smoking in bed. Thankfully, there were no serious injuries in these cases, but the CFD has worked fires in the past where smoking in bed has led to severe burns and even death. It is important for smokers to know the steps they can take to keep themselves and their families safe from fire. Please smoke outside. Many things in your home can catch on fire if they touch something hot like a cigarette or ashes. Put cigarettes out all of the way every time you smoke. Don’t walk away from lit cigarettes and other smoking materials. Do not smoke after taking medicine that makes you tired because you may not be able to prevent or escape from a fire. Never smoke around medical oxygen. It can explode if a flame or spark is near. Never smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily and you might fall asleep with a lit cigarett