Controlling Second-Hand Smoke

Increasing ventilation will dilute the smoke but will not make it safe, since there is no known safe level of exposure to cancer-causing agents. Restricting smokers to separate rooms will only help if these rooms have their own ventilation systems.

Electronic air filters and air purifiers may remove some smoke particles from the air, but they cannot remove those that have settled on food, furnishings, skin and other surfaces. Their effect on the gaseous components of second-hand smoke is unknown.

There is only one way to eliminate second-hand smoke from indoor air: remove the source.

Managing Second Hand Smoke of Others

Be brave. Start with the understanding that smoking is not just a habit. Most often, it is an addiction that's very difficult to beat. So, smokers need your help and understanding. In fact, you may find that most smokers want to understand and respect the right of others to breathe clean air.

Here are some steps you can take:

• First, get the smoke outside. Ensure that smokers understand that you and others have the right to breathe clean air indoors. Designate your home a smoke free zone and ask them politely to smoke outside.
• Second, spread the word. Discuss health issues related to second-hand smoke and smoking in a constructive and informed manner.
• Thirdly, support or organize local campaigns for smoke free environments – workplaces as well as public environments like restaurants, bars, and shopping malls – by contacting your municipality's health office or your elected representative.

>> What's in a Cigarette

>> Women and Quitting Smoking

>> Benefits of Quitting Smoking

>> Secondary Benefits of Quitting Smoking

>> Second-Hand Smoke

>> Second-Hand Smoke Facts

>> Controlling Second-Hand Smoke