SMOKERS who choose to stay at home and drink now that the public smoking ban is in place, are being urged to take extra care. Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue says that between April 1, 2003 and September 30 2006, there were 1,626 fires in the home in Cambr

SMOKERS who choose to stay at home and drink now that the public smoking ban is in place, are being urged to take extra care.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue says that between April 1, 2003 and September 30 2006, there were 1,626 fires in the home in Cambridgeshire.Of these 88 were caused by carelessly discarded smoking materials, eight of them in Fenland.

Wendy Coleman, community safety coordinator for Cambridgeshire, said: "The fire service fears that the ban will lead to an increase in people staying at home, smoking and drinking.

"Those who smoke in the home are increasing their chance of a house fire - and drinking alcohol only increases the likelihood of a fire."

The service has the following tips to help you keep safe:

1 Make sure your cigarette is fully extinguished.

2 Take extra care when you are drowsy and do not fall asleep while your cigarette is still burning.

3 Never smoke in bed.

4 Never leave lit cigars, cigarettes or pipes unattended.

5 Use a heavy ashtray which will not overbalance.

6 Always use an ashtray, not a wastepaper basket.

7 Fit and maintain a smoke alarm.