Fire hazard: should an ashtray in the car be mandatory?
➡️ https://t.co/xWmcwSz4B1 pic.twitter.com/KPhkwLvGaD

— The Telegram (@TheTelegram) August 12, 2022

France has been experiencing very intense heat for the past few weeks. A heat wave that is prolonged and which obviously creates many problems, and in particular drought. Indeed, the lack of rain dries up the soil as well as the plants. As a result, the latter are more sensitive to fires, and therefore fires have recently become more frequent. A real disaster for the environment as well as for the affected farmers. In most cases, these fires are accidental. However, they do not trigger by themselves and are usually caused by human intervention, even if it is not voluntary. Of course, you think about broken bottles, but also about butts thrown to the ground by the drivers. A real scourge that some mayors want to stop.

[#Prévention]
This week Fr #Lyonstrong heat is expected.
🧓 Let’s be attentive to the most fragile people.
🐶 Do not leave any animal alone in the car, even for a short time.

🚨 In case of emergency, dial 1⃣5⃣#Protect https://t.co/lxlTjxCY4c pic.twitter.com/b91p1m93A2

– National Police 69 (@PoliceNat69) July 11, 2022

many rules

Indeed, many elected officials are implementing measures to prohibit motorists from smoking while driving. Because for now, and always, this practice is completely legal. Indeed, it is permissible to smoke a small cigarette while driving, provided that you always have the opportunity to react in case of a problem. On the other hand, it is strictly forbidden to smoke in the presence of minors under the threat of a fine of 135 euros. It is also forbidden to throw a cigarette out of the window, which also equates to a fine of €135. The amount increases to €3,750 if the offense causes damage to a public road. Like a fire, for example. But smoking is by no means prohibited, and 25% of smokers do it even in the car.

To a complete ban?

Still, some elected officials would like to see it completely no smoking in your car, at least in summer. Some have already passed decrees in this direction, such as the mayor of Saint-Jean-d’Ilac in Gironde in 2019. Others want to go further. Pascal Parmentelat, mayor of Lavelin du Houx in the Vosges, did urge a deputy to bring the bill to the National Assembly. It remains to be seen whether it will succeed in the coming months or years.

HIGH HEAT | ☀️ Do you drive your car in extreme heat?
👉 Moisturize regularly
👉 Take breaks
👉 Be attentive to vulnerable passengers pic.twitter.com/XLvSTdQGIO

— Prefect of the Maritime Alps 🇫🇷🇪🇺 (@prefet06) July 2, 2022