Disposing of cigarette butts in planter pots, soil, peat moss, or on lawns or gardens is the leading cause of outdoor residential fires in Calgary. Fires that start outside of a building are potentially much more dangerous for occupants since smoke alarms may not detect the fire until it is well underway.
“In 2018, the improper disposal of smoking material in outdoor planters was responsible for 38 fires, eight of which caused damage greater than $100,000.” says Carol Henke, Public Information Officer, Calgary Fire Department.
To better protect your home and community, it is recommended that you:
- Ensure all butts and ash are out by dousing with them with water prior to putting in the trash.
- Always dispose of cigarette butts in a deep, wide, sturdy metal container with a lid. The container should be filled part way with sand or water and emptied regularly.
- Prune all tree branches within two metres of the ground and plant new trees at least three metres apart.
- Assess potential fire hazards within 1.5 metres of your home, including natural debris, trees and other structures.
- Use your ashtray to dispose of any smoking material when driving. Throwing a cigarette butt out of your car window is a serious fire hazard, pollutes our roadsides and has environmental impacts.
Remember to always call 9-1-1 to report a fire.
Visit calgary.ca/smokingdisposal for more information on disposing of smoking material.
