Group pushing "fire-safe" cigarettes Eds: APNewsNow.

Grand Forks, N.D. (AP) Grand Forks Fire Marshal Jerry Vien says North Dakota would join 44 other states if lawmakers approve so-called fire-safe cigarettes.

The cigarettes feature thicker paper bands that help put them out if they're left unattended.

Vien says smoking materials are the leading cause of residential fire deaths and the goal is to save lives. He says there's no such thing as a cigarette that will eliminate fires, but a fire-safe cigarette has less chance of burning when left unattended.

Information from: KNOX-AM, http://knoxradio.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-08-09 0921CST | save this article / add to your favorites list