Having that last cigarette before turning in for the night is a habit that Canvey firefighters are urging people to kick.
Crews from the station in Long Road have been called out nine times in three days after elderly residents set off fire alarms by having a quick smoke in bed.
Sub officer Russell Freeman said: "The largest cause of fatal fires at the moment is people smoking in bed.
"It is very dangerous and people, especially the elderly, should really not be doing this.
"Have your cigarette before you get in to bed, not while you are lying under the covers, otherwise it just isn't safe."
Published Monday January 5, 2004
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