LANSING – In recognition of October as Fire Prevention Month, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Smoke-Free Housing Initiative is raising awareness about the critical role that smoking and vaping play in fire risks, in addition to the serious health issues they can cause.

Smoking remains the leading cause of fatal fires in Michigan, accounting for 48% in 2024 and 25% of all fire deaths so far in 2025. Of these, 11% are linked to smoking while on medical oxygen. These fires often start when smoking materials, like cigarettes or hot ashes, are left unattended or are not properly discarded, potentially causing furniture, bedding or trash to catch fire.

Fire Prevention Month coincides with the National Fire Prevention Association’s Fire Prevention Week that starts S

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