The number of smoking-material related fire deaths dropped to the second-lowest level in 2008 since 1980, according to a report released yesterday by the NFPA.
The nonprofit organization has pointed to new fire-safe cigarette legislation as an important an important reason why the number dropped below 700.
In 2008, a total of 114,800 smoking-material fires resulted in an estimated 680 deaths, 1,520 injuries and $737 billion in direct property damage.
While such fires have been down by 66 percent between 1980 and 2008 and can be attributed to fewer people smoking and new furniture standards and regulations, the NFPA believes the most recent drop in the total can also be attributed to "fire-safe" cigarette legislation.
The legislation mandates that cigarettes be produced with reduced ignition strength and carry a lower propensity for burning when left unattended. As of February, all 50 states had passed similar bills and the laws are in effect in 47 states, according to the organization.
"We are thrilled to see the intended consequences of fire-safe cigarette legislation," NFPA Spokewoman Lorraine Carli said. "It is clear that the initiative has already made an impact on public safety and that further progress will be achieved over the next few years."
