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 Second -hand smoke is the smoke from the burning end of a cigarette (side-stream smoke), plus the smoke blown into the air by a person smoking (mainstream smoke). Second-hand smoke contains more than 200 poisons, including 50 that are known to cause cancer.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of second-hand smoke, with an increased risk of glue ear, respiratory illnesses, asthma and reduced lung growth. Reducing children's risk from second-hand smoke is a focus for Community and Public Health's Smokefree staff.
The Smokefree staff at Community and Public Health get involved in local smokefree homes and cars campaigns and initiatives that fit with national messages. If you are interested in being involved within your area contact your local Smokefree Health Promoter.
Be a positive role model and don't smoke around children at any time.
Second-hand cigarette smoke is more dangerous for children than adults because:
- They breath quicker - and therefore breath in more smoke
- Their lungs are smaller and much more delicate so are more easily damaged
- Lung clearance rates are lower
- Their immune systems are immature so they are more prone to becoming sick
- Children who breathe in second-hand smoke are more likely to develop illnesses such as chest infections, glue ear and asthma
- Young people who have friends/whanau who smoke are more likely to become smokers
Remember:
- Winding the window down in the car or opening windows in the house will not remove all of the poisons
- The poisons will linger long after the smoke and smell have disappear
- Children are often not able to move away from second-hand smoke in a car or home
Here are some easy steps to making your car and home smokefree:
- Make a rule - your car and home are smokefree at all times for everyone
- Clean out your car ashtray
- Remove the car cigarette lighter
- Let other people know - place smokefree stickers in obvious places for others to notice
- Ask your family and whanau to support you by not smoking in your home or car
Documents
Downloads
Order copies from the Community Health Information Centre.
Links
Second Hand Smoke
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