Smokers living in a fires hotspot are being given cause to think each time they light up.

Cigarette lighters carrying a fire brigade hotline telephone number are being distributed to smokers in an area of Teesside, in the hope they will dial for safety advice before their own number is up.

Tony Churchill, Grangetown's Station Manager said: "We decided to aim at this high risk group in Eston as this is the place where we have the highest smoking related incidents.

"We know that smokers are at a higher risk of fires and if we can't stop them smoking then at least we can give them tips to reduce the risk of fire if they opt for a free Home Fire Safety check.

A fire safety team is homing in on Eston's social clubs and pubs, the traditional preserves of smokers.

Mr Churchill said: "The lighters are an ideal way to get to this group of people.''

The lighters all carry a telephone number to ring for a free Home Fire Safety Check.

Cleveland Fire Brigade is also reinforcing the message with a poster campaign.

"We want to work with the community to reduce deaths and injuries caused by fire and get our messages across. These clubs and pubs are now working in partnership with us and we hope to receive plenty of phone calls from people requesting Home Fire Safety Checks,'' said Mr Churchill.

For a free Home Fire Safety Check call 01429 874063.