Smoke-Free Parks, Playgrounds and Outdoor Areas

Enjoy a Breath of Fresh Air

Limiting exposure to secondhand smoke in areas of public access and recreation improves the quality of the air we share.

Preventing and reducing tobacco use are the most important public health action that we can take to improve the health of people right here in Monroe County.

Why Smoke-Free Parks ,Playgrounds and Outdoor Areas Are Important to Our Children

Each day children in Monroe County will visit our parks to use the playground equipment, play team sports, or just be outside with their friends and family.

Cigarette butts are hazardous.

Many cigarette butts end up on the ground. Young children may pick up the butts and put them in their mouth, possibly choking or burning themselves. The harmful chemicals and nicotine in discarded cigarettes can be toxic and even fatal to a small child.

Secondhand smoke is harmful.

Children exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to suffer from colds, ear infections, bronchitis and pneumonia. Secondhand smoke is especially dangerous to children and adults with asthma or chronic illnesses.

Children Model Adult Behaviors

When children see adults smoking in a family-friendly place like a park, they think smoking is acceptable and are more likely to copy the behavior.

Our children deserve a clean, safe place to play.

What you can do to make Parks, Playgrounds and Outdoor Areas Smoke-Free?

• Join community members throughout Monroe County who are speaking out.
• Contact your local government representatives through letter, email or phone calls and express your support for Smoke-Free Parks and Playgrounds.
• Join our local coalition working on this issue.