Tips to protect your family from the dangers of second-hand smoke

Are you or someone you know affected by the impact of second-hand smoke? In Northern BC, 43 per cent of residents live in a household where at least one person smokes cigarettes, cigars or pipes. So Northern Health is asking people to take steps to cut the impact of second hand smoke.

Children are especially at risk with respect to smoke exposure. Second-hand smoke is more harmful to kids than adults as their lungs are still developing and are more easily damaged. Babies also inhale more smoke than adults because they breathe faster.

Making your home, as well as your car, smoke free will cut your child’s risk for health issues like lung and ear infections, chronic coughs and colds, asthma, and allergies. A smoke free environment will also cut the chance that your child will start smoking.

A few simple steps can help protect you and your family from the serious health effects caused by second-hand smoke:

• Make the commitment to have a smoke free home and car
• Educate yourself about the health risks associated with second-hand smoke exposure
• Avoid establishments that allow smoking
• Encourage retailers to implement smoke free entrances into their buildings
• Ask your friends and family members not to smoke around your child
• Ensure the daycare your child attends is smoke free