What are "fire-safe" cigarettes designed to do?

"Fire-safe" cigarettes are specifically engineered to extinguish themselves if they are not actively being smoked, which is a crucial safety feature aimed at reducing the risk of accidental fires. This design typically involves the incorporation of special chemical treatments or specific structural features, such as banded paper that limits the amount of oxygen reaching the burning tobacco, causing the cigarette to go out when not puffed on.

This innovation addresses a significant fire hazard associated with traditional cigarettes, which can continue to burn and potentially lead to fires when left unattended. By contrast, cigarettes that burn longer, produce less smoke, or aim to be less addictive do not address the specific safety concern related to the risk of ignition and accidental fires that "fire-safe" cigarettes seek to mitigate.