Smoking Prohibited in Outdoor Public Spaces for Everyone’s Health
Written by admin, July 14, 2016
July 14, 2016 – Peterborough Public Health Reminds Residents about Smoke-Free Laws
Peterborough Public Health is reminding residents and visitors that both the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and municipal smoking by laws restrict smoking in area parks, playgrounds, beaches and sports fields.
“These regulations protect people from outdoor exposure to second hand smoke, because even outdoors it is toxic,” said Donna Churipuy, Manager, Healthy Living Programs. “In fact, there is no safe level of exposure to second hand smoke.”
She noted that Tobacco Enforcement Officers are conducting inspections of Peterborough’s parks, playgrounds and beaches (including Peterborough Musicfest events and ball diamonds) where smoking could result in a fine up to $305.
Churipuy said the good news is that the norms are changing as more people expect and want smoke-free outdoor spaces. “Smoke?free public spaces provide a supportive environment for people who wish to stop smoking, and many people see positive, smoke-free role-modelling as especially important for our youth,” she said. According to one 2011 Ipsos Reid poll, 89% of Ontarian respondents indicated that they would support additional tobacco control measures such as prohibiting smoking in areas where children play.
“We know that 2/3 of Peterborough residents who smoke want to quit smoking in the next six months,” Churipuy added.
Help is available for those who want to quit smoking by calling Peterborough Public Health at 705-743-1000.
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For further information, please contact:
Donna Churipuy
Manager, Healthy Living Programs
705-743-1000, ext. 218