It is known that since the smoking ban came into effect on July 1 2007 more people have opted to smoke at home rather than in pubs or bars.

Now new research by safety experts suggests there could be a rise in the number of domestic fires related to cigarettes, historically one of the leading causes.

The trend may bring an increase in the number of house fires for the first time since 1979.

In Ireland the smoking ban enforced in March 2004 saw a substantial increase in smoking-related fires in homes.

Stephen Hardy at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Services said: "People should be cautious, especially when under the influence of alcohol.

Potential

"People often like a cigarette with a drink and alcohol can easily make you drowsy and more at risk of cigarette-related fires."

He added that there wasn't necessarily any correlation between the smoking ban and the potential for more fires occurring at homes in 2008.

"That's not to say it won't happen, but people should always be alert to the possibility of a fire in the home, whatever the circumstances.

"Cigarettes burn at up to 700 degrees Centigrade, and have therefore always got to be treated with respect.

"Never smoke in bed or when you're feeling drowsy.

"Always make sure your cigarette is properly stubbed out."

Mr Hardy said that the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Services had been "hugely successful" in driving down the number of fires across the county, but that "people need to play their part and always be vigilant."