Second Hand Smoking

Secondhand smoke is the mixture of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette and the smoke exhaled by the smoker. Cigarette smoke is hazardous not only to the smoker but also to the non-smoker. Protect yourself and your family from secondhand smoke.

Consider the following:

• Children exposed to secondhand smoke may have a greater risk of developing cavities and tooth decay.
• Exposure to secondhand smoke in infants and children can lead to increased risk of ear infections, bronchitis, and can irritate asthma.


• Immediate adverse effects on the cardiovascular system can occur as a result of secondhand smoke exposure. The risk of a heart attack or lung cancer is increased.


• Secondhand smoke releases poisonous gases like hydrogen cyanide (used in rat poison) and carbon monoxide (found in car exhaust fumes).

How to reduce your risk:

• Ask those that smoke to not do so in your home or car. Opening the window is not enough. Secondhand smoke can linger for hours even when windows are open.


• If you are a smoker, quit! If you are a non-smoker, encourage those that smoke to quit.


• Always take the smoke free options in hotels, restaurants, and car rental agencies.


• Post a sign outside your home to notify visitors of your smoke-free home.