Health and Social Services Minister Jamie Ballem launched a new initiative today to improve the health of Island children by reducing the number of children exposed to second hand smoke in their home.
Beginning today, more than 20,000 static cling signs will be distributed to Island homes. The colorful signs stick to doors and windows and indicate that the home is smoke-free. It is most effective when placed on the front door above the door knob at eye level.
Signs will be distributed to students in grades 1-6 and to children in child care facilities.
Minister Jamie Ballem advised that PEI children have the highest rates of regular exposure to second hand smoke. "This is a serious child health issue. We are pleased to work with the P.E.I. Tobacco Reduction Alliance to support Islanders to make their homes smoke-free and support the health of our children."
Dr. Kathy Bigsby, an Island pediatrician, indicated that when young children are exposed to second hand smoke, they are more likely to suffer from asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, ear infections, coughing or wheezing.
A study of more than 1400 homes conducted in May by the PEI Tobacco Reduction Alliance and researchers at the University of Prince Edward Island indicated that more than two thirds of Islanders who smoke and have small children, smoke in the presence of their children. The study showed that of these homes, more than one in five was considering making their home smoke-free. Respondents indicated that one of the most difficult factors in making their home smoke-free is having to ask family and friends to smoke outside.
Pat Charlton, co-chair of the PEI Tobacco Reduction Alliance, advised that signs indicating no smoking are very effective. Previous research and the results of this study showed support for house signs to enable Islanders to communicate to others that their home is smoke-free.
She advised that the study indicated that Islanders felt one of the difficulties in making their home smoke-free was asking visitors not to smoke inside their home. "The sign helps ease this by making homeowners and guests more comfortable," she said.
The PEI Tobacco Reduction Alliance tested a number of signs that stick to doors and windows. The one they selected is warm and inviting and carries a clear message that the home is smoke free.
Signs are also available through Regional Health Authorities, Asthma Education Centre, the PEI Lung Association, the PEI Cancer Society, Public Health Nursing, Home and School Federation, PEI Federation of Municipalities, Office of the Fire Marshall, and the Evangeline Community Health Centre. For more information on the program contact Pat Charlton at 368-6133.