How to Stop Secondhand Smoking

Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoke, involuntary smoke or environmental smoke, refers to the smoke inhaled by those living with, working with, or standing near others -- while they smoke tobacco products. Secondhand smoke is inhaled from the side-stream smoke, which comes from the end of a smoker's cigarette, cigar or pipe -- and mainstream smoke, which is inhaled and then exhaled by the smoker. According to the report of the Surgeon General, side-stream smoke has "higher concentrations of cancer-causing agents," and, because its particles are smaller than the mainstream smoke, it more easily enters our cells.

Instructions

• 1

  Work to change policies at your place of business concerning cigarette smoking.

  Work in an environment that does not allow smoking, especially indoors. Air handlers and filters cannot clean the carcinogens from the smoke before redistributing the air back into the room. If your business allows smoking, lobby to make changes.

• 2

  Sharing a car with a smoker will expose you to dangerous levels of secondhand smoke.

  Do not ride in a car with someone who is smoking, especially if the vehicle's windows are closed.

• 3

  Avoid places where smokers gather, if you want to avoid secondhand inhalation.

  Avoid people in public places who are smoking. Smoking is not illegal, so people can smoke outside of stores, and in some bars or nightclubs. Frequent businesses that do not allow smoking, and let them know you appreciate that they are smoke-free.

• 4

  Keeping your home smoke-free makes it healthier for everyone.

  Maintain a smoke-free home. Make it a rule that no one is allowed to smoke on your property. Smoke in the home is bad for everyone living there, including pets.