FIREFIGHTERS have launched a campaign to cut down on the number of people who die in smoking-related fires.

Since 2000, 15 people have died in house fires started by cigarettes in County Durham and Darlington.

Nationally, fires started by smoking account for one third of all accidental deaths, while only causing eight per cent of fires - meaning people are more likely to die in a smoking-related fire.

David Turnbull, Durham and Darlington Fire Service community safety manager, said: "Cigarette fires are the biggest killer as they often happen at night after people have gone to bed.

"A cigarette burns at 700 degrees Celsius, so make sure when you put it out it really is out. That final check could save you and your family's lives."

He said fire caused by cigarettes could be prevented by never smoking in bed, never leaving lit cigarettes around, using a proper ashtray which cannot be knocked over, and having a working smoke alarm.