Smoking is hardly a solitary act. When you smoke around non-smokers, those around you are at high risk from second-hand smoke, which is the mixture of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette and the exhaled fumes of the smoker.

In fact, among the over 4,000 chemicals in cigarette smoke, second-hand smoke contains harmful chemicals such as nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, ammonia, and heavy metals. Consequently, people who frequently breathe in second-hand smoke are at higher risks for heart and lung diseases than people who are not exposed.

Children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. Children are more susceptible to the dangerous effects of second-hand smoke because they breathe at a faster rate than adults and have a less developed lung and immune system. Children are at higher risk of developing a number of illnesses such as coughing, wheezing, asthma, ear infection, and lung diseases. Second-hand smoke taken in by pregnant women is also very harmful to unborn babies. Nicotine in the bloodstream of the mother can decrease blood flow to the baby, affecting their heart, lung, digestive system, and central nervous system. Carbon monoxide can also slow the baby's growth and lead to low birth weight.

Reduce the heath risks of second-hand smoke by making your home and car smoke-free environments. A smoke-free environment means not smoking inside the home or car. Since smoke can easily seep through closed doors and cling onto fabrics, this rule needs to be applied at all times in all areas of your residence and vehicle. Cigarette smoke cannot be completely cleared by opening a window or using special fans. Air filtration systems also cannot completely remove all the small gases and particles of the harmful chemicals of second-hand smoke.

Take these steps to help you establish a smoke-free environment for your family:

  • List the benefits. Write down the reasons for keeping your home and car smoke-free.
  • Share your decision. Share this decision with family members, gather their input, and persuade those who may be uncomfortable with the idea.
  • List potential challenges. Discuss potential challenges that you might face with your family members and come up with solutions and strategies together. For example, what should you do if you are attempting to quit but feel the urge to smoke?
  • Remove all ashtrays from the home and car. Removing these smoking supplies can serve as a constant reminder to not smoke inside the home.
  • Set up a designated area for smokers outside the home. It's important to realize that smoke can still seep into your home through your doors and your clothes, but smoking outside and away from doors and windows will reduce the exposure of second-hand smoke on your family's health.
  • Set up a date and take a pledge. Select a date to go completely smoke-free in your home and take the pledge together as a family.
  • Inform all guests that your home and car are smoke-free zones. It is important to maintain your decision even with guests who might smoke. It may be a good idea to inform them of your family's decision ahead of time.