Secondhand smoke a problem outdoors, too

Thursday, June 2, 2011
Letter to the Editor
Daily Gazette

As the warmer weather is upon us, we are likely to see more children and their families enjoying the outdoors. However, in many public places, adults and teens are lighting up their cigarettes. Many public places are now banning smoking in or near entranceways, ball fields, as well as on private land. This movement is becoming as commonplace as the clean indoor air law.

Tobacco-free outdoors benefit the population, children and wildlife. In outdoor recreational settings such as playgrounds and beaches, a tobacco-free policy will reduce secondhand smoke exposure and eliminate cigarette butts so families can enjoy outdoor activities in a healthy environment. Our beaches, parks and playgrounds should not be used as ashtrays. Needless to say, tobacco litter is poisonous. and puts children, pets and wildlife at risk.

According to the American Lung Association, secondhand smoke contributes to dozens of diseases and illnesses, including asthma, heart disease, respiratory tract infections and ear infections. If we remove the pollutants from these outdoor environments, even the tiniest of lungs can breathe so much easier.

Please support the outdoor tobacco use restrictions. If you are seeking information on quitting smoking, contact the state Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS.

Christina D. Akey
Johnstown
The writer is a public health educator for Fulton County.