Smoking ban raises home insurance fears

Posted : 28-02-2006

With the smoking ban set to be introduced in Scotland from March many have expressed fears of increased numbers of house-fires as smokers drink more at home.

To combat this Glasgow City Council is launching a major new public awareness campaign next month to educate people of the dangers of smoking at home.

Faced with the prospect of having a cigarette in the freezing cold outside the pub, or enjoying one in the comfort of one's own home, both the number of stay-at-home drinkers and a corresponding rise in domestic house fires are expected.

An official report announcing the campaign said: "During a discussion on the proposed ban, some members expressed concern there may be an increase in smokers opting to drink alcohol at home, rather than in licensed premises, with a corresponding potential increase in the danger of domestic fire."

To mitigate this risk, smoking home-owners particularly are being urged to ensure their home insurance cover is adequate, or face a potentially huge bill for that late night cigarette.

But even with home insurance there are a number of ways to reduce the risk of house fires.

Roger Vincent, of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, recommended a fire-alarm with working batteries, ensuring cigarettes are stubbed out properly, but most importantly, do not smoke in bed.


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