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New Brunswick Lung Association Praises Decision to Ban Smoking in Cars With Children and Restrict Sale of Cigarillos
Fredericton - Children throughout New Brunswick will breathe a little easier, now that the Government of New Brunswick has introduced a ban on smoking in cars when children are present.
“Unlike adults who can choose to leave a situation, babies and children don’t have much choice when a parent smokes in the car,” said Julie McKeen, Director of Health Initiatives at the New Brunswick Lung Association. “They must stay with their parents or caregivers, even if the smoke is bothering them.”
“Smokers may think that cracking open a window helps, but it doesn’t – that smoke often just gets blown back into the car and can linger for hours,” said McKeen. “Smoke clings to the upholstery in your car, exposing passengers to its toxic chemicals even after a cigarette is put out.”
According to Statistics Canada, in 2003, the proportion of 12 year-olds regularly exposed to second-hand smoke in private vehicles was 17%. In people 12 years of age or older that number is 10%. Additionally, childhood exposure to second-hand smoke is linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), ear infections, asthma and respiratory disease.
“Given the serious known health effects that second hand smoke can have on children, smoking in cars has become a critical public health issue,” said Kenneth H. Maybee, President and CEO of the New Brunswick Lung Association. “The New Brunswick Lung Association applauds the New Brunswick government for recognizing these important issues and implementing legislation to protect our society’s most vulnerable population.”
The smoking ban in cars in New Brunswick follows similar bans implemented in Ontario, British Columbia and Nova Scotia.
In addition to the smoking ban in cars where children are present, flavoured cigarillos and other tobacco products containing flavourings will be restricted, unless they have been prescribed. The amendments will also prohibit the sale of cigarillos in packages of less than 20.
“Flavoured cigarillos that taste like chocolate and strawberry, among other flavours, are designed to entice children and teens,” said Maybee. “Add to that the fact that they can be bought individually, makes it more affordable for the teen who wants to try a cigarillo for the first time.”
“I think this legislation will raise awareness and educate the public. Hopefully people will understand the consequences of this and the impact it has on their children’s health,” said Maybee.
Established in 1900, The Lung Association is one of Canada’s oldest and most respected health charities, and the leading national organization for science-based information, research, education, support programs and advocacy on lung heath issues. Please visit the New Brunswick chapter of the Lung Association at www.nb.lung.ca. Remember,
“When You Can’t Breathe, Nothing Else Matters.”
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