What is secondhand smoke?

Most of us have heard people talking about secondhand smoke but few of us really understand what it is.

Secondhand smoke is smoke that is breathed in from other people's tobacco smoke.  It is caused by smoke that is blown out when someone is smoking or it comes from the tip of a cigarette that has been left to burn.

There are more than 4000 chemicals in every cigarette.  Many poisonous substances can stay in a room or car for months after the cigarette has been stubbed out.

Secondhand smoke will:

• Quickly spread to other rooms in your house even if a window is open
• Stick to clothes, wall, furniture, carpets and toys
• Increase the risk of health problems for your family, friends and pets

Why should I worry about dangers to Children?

We all want the best for our children so make sure you protect them from the effects of secondhand smoke.  Children and babies who live in homes or travel in cars where people smoke have a greater chance of:

• Becoming ill with coughs and ear infections
• Suffering from on-going chest problems such as wheezing, asthma and bronchitis
• Dying from cot death (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome- Sids)

What can I do to keep my family safe from secondhand smoke?

• Make your home a smoke free home and ask friends and family to smoke outside
• Avoid smoking or allowing other people to smoke in your car at all times.

For more information about

North Glasgow Smokefree Homes & Zones Project

call:

Irene on 0141 201-9725