Abstract: An ashtray has at least one cigarette-receivable recess in an upper rim surface, the one or each recess comprising a generally U-shaped channel having width or depth dimensions which are sufficient to reduce the combination rate or extinguish a burning cigarette when the burning end reaches or is located within the recess. At least one recess is angled upwardly with respect to the base and gripping formation are provided at each recess to assist retention of a burning cigarette as a safety feature. A supporting platform may be included for temporarily resting a cigarette and permitting relighting of cigarettes after use of the present ashtray.