East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service gives top tips for Stoptober

The fire service is urging people to follow their three steps to achieve a safer Stoptober.
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Stoptober is the 28-day challenge to stop smoking.

Research has shown that if you quit for 28 days, you’re five times more likely to quit for good.

Getting rid of the smoking habit won’t just benefit your own health, but also the health of those around you, your finances, and it can help keep homes safe.

(KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP/Getty Images)(KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP/Getty Images)
(KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP/Getty Images)
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In 2019/20, 69 fires in the county were recorded as smoking-related, 24 due to a cigarette lighter, and 45 due to ‘smoking materials’ – according to East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS).

Sophie Hepworth from ESFRS’s community safety team said, “We know smoking is a tough habit to break, but studies have shown that you are three times more likely to succeed if you sign up to one of the free stop smoking services.

“When you decide to quit smoking, within 24 hours your lungs will work more efficiently, and after a year, your risk of coronary heart disease is reduced by a half.

“Although it might not be the right time for all smokers to give up, we want people to be aware of the increased fire risks to themselves and their families, so we urge all smokers to sign up to a free home safety check by ringing 0800 177 7069.”

ESFRS’ three steps to a safer Stoptober:

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1)Sign up to Stoptober https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

2)Book a home safety check with us to get advice and free smoke alarms

3)If you do smoke, reduce the chances of a fire by putting it out, right out.

Anyone wanting further information should contact the community safety team free of charge on 0800 1777069.

You can also find out more safety advice at www.esfrs.org

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