Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) launched a survey on World No Tobacco Day, May 31, to learn what residents think about smoking in outdoor public spaces.
Many municipalities, including the town of Orangeville, have taken the initiative to make their communities healthier for everyone by passing outdoor smoking bylaws. There are numerous benefits including decreasing negative role modelling for young people, reducing the litter from cigarettes, and providing protection from direct exposure to second-hand smoke.
“Babies and children are more vulnerable and need to be protected from exposure to tobacco,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, medical officer of health and CEO of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health. “Exposure puts them at higher risk for serious health problems. There is also growing evidence that children exposed to second-hand smoke are more at risk of developing cancer when they are older.”
The short survey will gather public opinion about smoking in outdoor spaces such as parks, playgrounds and Sports fields. It is available until the end of July at fluidsurveys.com/s/outdoorsmokingsurvey. Responses will help shape policy recommendations that will be made to the municipalities of Wellington, Dufferin and Guelph.
WDGPH works to prevent and protect against illness and injury and to promote health. Public Health works with local municipalities and other service providers including primary healthcare providers and hospitals.
