Cigarette warning after fire death

SOUTH Yorkshire Fire & Rescue has warned smokers about the dangers of cigarettes which fall short of safety laws.

It follows inquest of a Doncaster woman who died in a house fire caused by a discarded cigarette which did not comply with EU legislation.

Irene Gallagher (83) smoked fags without the extra bands of paper, designed to reduce the risk of them continuing to burn if left unattended.

SYFR area manager Mick Mason said: “This was a tragic incident which once again highlights the fire risks associated with smoking.

“We are concerned about the numbers of cigarettes being sold which do not meet the legislation, and urge smokers not to buy cheap, unbranded cigarettes or those manufactured and sold outside the EU.”