Smoking in Homes

The biggest secondhand smoke threat to children's health is usually right in their own home. Secondhand smoke contains more than 4,000 chemicals, 250 of which are cancer causing. Each year, 280 children die from respiratory illnesses caused by secondhand smoke.

All children are susceptible to secondhand smoke; however, infants and very young children are extremely susceptible because their lungs are so small. Secondhand smoke exposure can cause SIDS, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, phlegm, coughing, ear infections, wheezing and an increased number of colds.

Smoking in Vehicles

Opening a vehicle window or vehicle vents will not protect your passengers from the danger of secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke contains more than 4,000 chemicals, 250 of which are cancer causing.

Third-hand smoke is tobacco smoke that remains long after the cigarette has been put out; it consists of smoke particles that settle on drapes, carpets, furniture and more.

Smoking in confined spaces, such as a vehicle, increases the intensity of secondhand smoke exposure. Research shows that the level of air pollution in a car caused by cigarette smoke is so severe that breathing it is dangerous for anyone. In fact, smoke concentrations hit levels rated "hazardous" by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For infants and young passengers, secondhand smoke exposure can cause SIDS, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, phlegm, coughing, ear infections, wheezing and an increased number of colds.

Creating a tobacco-free home & vehicle will improve the health of you, your loved ones and your pets. By signing the tobacco-free pledge, you will be taking the first step toward a healthier home or vehicle.