Why does the Gaston County Tobacco Rule include government grounds and parks in the rule?

Health risks of secondhand smoke outdoors:

  • It has been shown that during smoking, outdoor levels of secondhand smoke may be as high as indoor levels and may pose a health risk for people nearby (if you can smell it, you are being exposed).
  • According to the U.S. Surgeon General's report in 2006, "Breathing even a little secondhand smoke can be harmful."
  • Not only are we concerned about secondhand smoke, we are concerned for our youth. Having tobacco-free grounds and parks helps set a positive norm for our youth. 90% of adults started using tobacco before the age of 18. Therefore, in order to reduce the use of tobacco in our community, we should influence kids not to start.

A cleaner environment:

  • Cigarette butts are the most commonly littered item in America.
  • Outdoor smoke-free policies have been shown to decrease litter making the clean-up at outdoor areas less cumbersome.

Show All Answers

1. Why did the DHHS Board implement a Tobacco-Free Rule?
2. Why does the Gaston County Tobacco Rule include government grounds and parks in the rule?
3. Why is the DHHS Board addressing smoking and tobacco use?
4. How can you tell people that they aren't allowed to do a legal behavior?
5. I didn't think e-cigarettes/vaping devices had tobacco in them, why are they included?
6. Why does it matter that I smoke outside or use smokeless tobacco products?
7. How will this rule be enforced?
8. Can I smoke in my car?
9. Is there a penalty?