Council backs smoke-free cars law

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Pat WrightWARRINGTON Borough Council is backing Public Health England’s campaign to highlight the hidden dangers that second hand smoke in homes and cars can cause to children’s health.
New regulations which come into force from October 1 mean that anyone smoking in a car with children under 18 present will be breaking the law and could be fined.
Second hand – or passive – smoke from cigarettes is dangerous and can be responsible for a range of health problems including bronchitis, asthma and glue ear, and is especially dangerous to children.
The new legislation has wide support in the North West with a recent poll reporting 79 per cent agreed with the measure.
Cllr Pat Wright (pictured), the council’s lead member for health, wellbeing and adult services said: “Cigarette smoke contains around 4,500 chemicals, 60 of which we know cause cancer. Children suffering the effects of second hand smoke are admitted to hospitals every year with complications such as bronchitis, asthma and reduced lung function.
“We know that second hand smoke is particularly dangerous to young people within the enclosed confines of a car, even when the window is open or the air conditioning is on.
“We support smoke-free cars and anything that will protect children from the dangers of second hand smoke.”
Andrea Crossfield, chief executive of Tobacco Free Futures which led the campaign for smoke-free cars in the North West said: “We have campaigned for smoke-free cars for five years, and we hope the change in the law along with the extra information and support available will lead to healthier choices by people across Warrington to keep their cars smoke-free.
“Smoky cars, packed full of toxic tobacco chemicals, are especially deadly to children because they have smaller lungs, faster breathing and less developed immune systems. Second-hand smoke in cars is dangerous and can be up to 11 times the levels you would find in a smoky room. Our advice is to keep your family safe by keeping your car smoke-free.”
Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dunyvutPWHA


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