ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- The Anniston Army Depot Directorate of Emergency Service's Fire Prevention Office would like to remind the work force, supervisors and evacuation coordinators of some smoking requirements here at our installation.
In the past, fires have been caused by improper disposal of cigarette butts and butt receptacles not being emptied regularly. Cigarette butts must be disposed of properly to reduce the risk of fires.
With the dry weather and low humidity we are experiencing, the threat of fires is even higher. We must do all we can, as a workforce, to reduce that risk.
The gray cigarette butt receptacles seen across ANAD are made of flame retardant polyethylene and do a good job of limiting the amount of oxygen available if a fire were to start.
This does not mean these receptacles are fire proof. With enough heat, they will melt and lose structural integrity, allowing flame to spread outside the receptacle.
It is important to remember these receptacles are not trash bins. Please, do not dispose of paper or other combustibles in these receptacles.
The DES Fire Prevention Office recommends these receptacles be located at least five feet from buildings and any combustible materials. We also recommend the ANAD workforce, supervisors and evacuation coordinators work together to ensure these receptacles are emptied as needed.
When emptying receptacles, remove the metal bucket, douse the contents with water, allowing the contents to soak for at least 10 minutes to ensure all cigarettes are extinguished, and dispose of them properly.
If your shop or job site does not have a cigarette receptacle, please notify your supervisor.
Here are a few other safe smoking practices from DES' Fire Prevention Office, which are mandated by the Commander's Policy #12, dated Oct. 20, 2010.
• Smoking is restricted to outside designated areas
• Designated smoking areas must be located away from common entry or exits into the workplace
• Designated smoking areas must be posted as such
• Smoking is prohibited in all government buildings and vehicles
• Smoking is prohibited where it presents a safety hazard -- such as at firing ranges, ammunition storage areas, fuel dumps, motor pools and equipment maintenance shops
• Remember to call 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency. Just like safety; fire prevention is everyone's responsibility.
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