BENEFITS OF A SMOKE-FREE HOME AND CAR

Beside the obvious health benefits, there are many of other reasons why you should keep your home and car smoke-free.

  • You will be a healthier role-model for your children.
  • The air in your home and car will be much fresher, cleaner and will smell better.
  • You will lower the chances of fire in your home.
  • Your cooking will taste better because your ingredients have not absorbed the smell of second-hand smoke.
  • You will save time, money and energy by not having to clean your curtains, walls, windows and mirrors as often.
  • You won't need to paint your walls and ceilings as often.
  • The resale value of your home and car may be greater.
  • You will be less distracted while driving and you will lower the chances of traffic violations and accidents.
  • There won't be any cigarette burn marks on your car upholstery or furniture in your home.
  • Your car will be cleaner and you won't have to empty the ashtray in your car anymore.

 

Here are some specific actions your family can take:

IN YOUR HOME:

  • Set-up an area outside for smokers to use. Agree to sit outside or go for a walk with smokers to show that you are not rejecting them, just the smoke.
  • Post a smoke-free home magnet on your fridge and in your car to let people know that you do not allow smoking.
  • Remove all ashtrays from inside your home, even decorative ones.
  • Ask your children's caregivers, including babysitters, not to smoke around your children.
  • Ask anyone who is doing work in your home not to smoke indoors.
  • Leave a copy of this guide in a place where your family and friends will see it.
  • Post your smoke-free pledge on your fridge or bulletin board.
  • Buy some fresh flowers or bring them in from the garden.
  • Tell your non-smoking friends about your decision and invite them to visit.

IN YOUR CAR:

  • Let all passengers know that your car is smoke-free.
  • Clean out your car's ashtray and fill it with sugar-free candies, change or potpourri.
  • Wash your car and give it a good cleaning, including a thorough vacuuming.
  • Post a smoke-free decal in your car to let everyone know that you do not allow smoking.

 

(Information adapted from Health Canada's "Make your home and car smoke-free: A guide to protecting your family from second-hand smoke").

 

TAKE ACTION

Stop Smoking in Cars - Kids Deserve It!

Visit the Canadian Lung Association's Clean Air For Kids Campaign to voice your support: www.cleanairforkids.ca