Landlords, tenants can help keep our communities safe

October 6-12 is Fire Prevention Week, an annual event designed to raise awareness about fire safety, fire prevention and how to respond effectively when a fire breaks out.

This week, it’s important to recognize that smoking is the leading cause of fires in residential buildings.

According to statistics, in 2023, there were 129 smoking-related fires in Nebraska, 28% of which occurred in multifamily residences Smoke-Free Nebraska. These fires injured two civilians, injured three firefighters, and caused more than $1.1 million in property damage.

Nationally, the statistics are staggering. Between 2013 and 2022, the average 335 people According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are deaths every year in residential building fires caused by smoking.

In Douglas County, property owners and tenants can join the Metropolitan Omaha Tobacco Action Coalition (MOTAC) to prevent smoking-related fires, protect our neighbors from the dangers of secondhand smoke, and create a healthier community for everyone.

Owners who have changed jobs Smoke-free housing Reduce fire risk while protecting the health of non-smoking tenants. Up to 65% of the air in an apartment, including secondhand smoke, may come from other units in the building. In Nebraska, approximately 220 to 390 adults, children, and infants die each year from exposure to smokers (secondhand smoke and smoking during pregnancy).

Being smoke-free also reduces homeowners’ insurance and operating costs and reduces the frequency of replacement of carpets, flooring, fixtures and major appliances. Provided by MOTAC Smoke-Free/Tobacco-Free Policies in Multi-Unit Housing Toolkit For owners who want to make the switch.

Local tenants can Find smoke-free housing Metropolitan areas on the MOTAC website. If you live in a building that allows smoking and want to advocate for change, the American Non-Smokers’ Rights Foundation provide ideas Used to talk to landlords and organize with other tenants.