More than 8,000 cigarette lighters were confiscated from people visiting Beijing's Palace Museum on Thursday, the first day since the museum introduced a ban on cigarette lighters and matches.

Shan Jixiang, curator of the museum, also known as the Forbidden City, said security checks and publicity should be further strengthened in order to prevent smokers from lighting up at the museum.

The curator said the ban will further help eliminate potential fire risks at the museum.

Visitors will be able to retrieve confiscated lighters and matches at a designated area after finishing their visits, museum authorities said.

The museum said its staff are not allowed to smoke within museum grounds, adding that those who violate the museum's smoking ban will face punishment. Endi

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)