Smoking, alcohol and medication

Never smoke in bed. If you need to lie down, do not light up. 

Take extra care when you are tired, have been drinking alcohol or are taking medication. 

Never leave cigarettes, cigars or pipes unattended. 

Always make sure smoking materials are fully extinguished – put them out, right out. 

Use a heavy-based ashtray that doesn’t tip over and can’t melt or bun. A glass ashtray is ideal. 

Do not empty ashtrays into bins while contents are still hot. Add water and allow them to cool fully first. 

E-cigarettes can pose fire risks, especially when charging – use only the correct charger, avoid overnight charging, and never leave devices unattended while plugged in. Visit our e-cigarettes webpage for more information. 

Adults are advised not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week. 

Spread your drinking over three days or more if you drink as much as 14 units a week. 

Seek professional support if you are concerned about your own or a loved-one's drinking. 

Do not cook or handle naked flames under the influence of alcohol and drugs. 

Avoid drinking alcohol when taking medication, as this can further increase drowsiness and make you unwell. 

Some medications can affect your ability to respond to a smoke alarm.