CITIZENS REMINDED ABOUT CIGARETTE SAFETY;

ASKED TO REPORT VIOLATORS

As we approach what is historically the hottest time of the year in San Diego County and when fire risk is at its peak, Carlsbad Police Department reminds citizens to properly dispose of their cigarettes, and asks citizens to report when they see people throwing cigarettes from their vehicles.

Not only is throwing a cigarette from a car a violation of the California Vehicle Code, it is also a significant fire hazard. Citizens caught throwing lighted or unlighted cigarettes from vehicles will be cited and fined. The fine for a first time offense is $100 with a mandatory court appearance; the second offense is $500.

Citizens who see someone throwing a cigarette from a car are asked to call the 24-hour Cigarette Butt Hotline sponsored by the San Diego County Surfrider Foundation: 1-877-211-BUTT (2888). When calling the hotline, be prepared to report the following:

• Vehicle license number

• Vehicle make, model and color

• Date and time of incident

• Location

• Which party threw the cigarette (driver or passenger), male or female

Any other suspicious activity related to possible fires should be called in to 9-1-1.

Citizens have an important role in helping us not only protect life and property but also in preventing fires.