Across the US - By the end of this year, more than 30 states will be enforcing the use of fire safe cigarettes. Virginia will jump on the bandwagon in January 2010. This newer type of cigarette uses a technology called "speed bumps."

It's extra paper that causes the cigarette to put itself out if left unattended in an ashtray or dropped on the floor. Lynchburg Fire Marshal Greg Wormser says the idea could save lives, since cigarette smoking accounts anywhere from 500 to 700 residential deaths a year nationwide.

Greg Wormser, Lynchburg Fire Marshal - "So basically, about three out of every four Americans are going to be a little bit safer because there are these safe cigarettes out there."

Eighteen states already enforce fire safe cigarettes. Fourteen more will add the legislation sometime this year.

 Email To Friend           Digg It!