Since smoking was banned from enclosed public spaces nearly two years ago, many people are turning their homes into smoke free zones too. The poll of 2,000 of Swinton's home insurance customers found that 81% had completely banned smoking inside their home.

Of those questioned who currently smoke, 63% said that they go outside for a cigarette rather than having one inside their home. The main reasons for this was the smell (54%) and to protect non-smokers from second hand fumes (23%).

Women were the most likely smoke outside (86%) over men (74%). The most popular place to smoke was at the back door (72%) followed by out of a window (18%) and a small unfortunate few were confined to the garden shed (2%).

Recent figures released by the Office for National Statistics have shown that the number of adults smoking has reduced from 22% in 2007 down to 21% in 2008.

Each year smoking causes 3,500 household fires in the UK which result in 80 deaths and up to 1,400 injuries(i). To reduce the risk of causing a household fire through smoking, Swinton advises:

- Don't smoke in bed

- Never leave cigarettes unattended

- Use a proper ashtray

- Keep matches and lighters away from children

Steve Chelton, Insurer Development Manager for Swinton, said: "Each year there are thousands of home insurance claims for items damaged by cigarettes such as carpets and armchairs. Hopefully, now that more people are choosing to smoke outside we will see a drop in these claims, which may also help to reduce home insurance premiums."

(i) Figures from the Association of British Insurers

For more information contact Michael Travers or Anoushka Foster at Manchester PR agency SKV Communications on 0161 838 7770.

About Swinton

- With 580 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK's largest high street insurance retailer

- Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the community

- Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike and even classic car insurance

- With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates