The number of fires caused by smokers carelessly stubbing out cigarettes has fallen by a quarter in four years. 

Figures released yesterday (March 11) by London Fire Brigade (LFB) show the number of incidents have dropped from 1,113 in 2011 to 828 in 2014. 

Fire chiefs are putting the reduction down to the introduction of fire safe cigarette standards in 2011 which meant that every cigarette made in the EU would go out if it is not actively smoked. 

However, there is still 16 fires a week caused by cigaretters, cigars and pipes compared to around 21 a week in 2011 suggesting illegal or counterfeit cigarettes are impacting on the rate of reduction.  

LFB is urging all smokers to only buy cigarettes that meet European Union safety standards and to make sure they are put out properly. 

Officer Dave Brown, said: "Smoking vastly increases the risk of having a fire in your home. If you are a smoker it is absolutely vital that you make sure your cigarette is completely out when you have finished it.

"If you don't you are at risk of starting a fire that could destroy not only your home, but your life and the lives of your loved ones.

"We are pleased to see fire deaths reducing but we cannot become complacent. Never smoke illegal cigarettes or those that don't conform to European Union safety standards, as these do not have the special design that helps them go out if they are left burning." 

Since the beginning of last year, there has been seven e-cigarette related fires in the capital. 

Mr Brown added: "We are calling on e-cig retailers to ensure they are selling the correct chargers for the cigarettes.

"As with all rechargeable electrical equipment, it is vitally important that people use the correct type of charger for their e-cigs to prevent fires."