You shouldn't smoke--but if you do, you'll now have to butt out before driving a vehicle with small children on board. In light of studies on the harmful effects of second-hand smoke, the Ontario government is putting a new law in effect today that bans smoking in cars occupied by kids.
Premier Dalton McGuinty says that exposure to second-hand smoke in a vehicle for an hour is equivalent to a child smoking an entire pack of cigarettes. Studies back up his claim, saying that cigarette smoke in a vehicle cabin is some 23 times more concentrated than it is inside of a house. McGuinty says this most recent ban on smoking is the next logical step in his government's campaign against smoking.
"We know that this is harmful to children" the premier said. "We need to do everything we can to keep our children safe and healthy."
Anti-smoking advocates and numerous medical authorities support the idea, though many smokers see it as an invasion of their privacy and wonder if they'll one day be prohibited from smoking inside their homes. Others suggest that the law will be difficult for police to enforce.
Ontario motorists caught smoking with passengers under 16 on board will be faced with a $250 fine.
photo:Jupiter Images
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Premier Dalton McGuinty says that exposure to second-hand smoke in a vehicle for an hour is equivalent to a child smoking an entire pack of cigarettes. Studies back up his claim, saying that cigarette smoke in a vehicle cabin is some 23 times more concentrated than it is inside of a house. McGuinty says this most recent ban on smoking is the next logical step in his government's campaign against smoking.
"We know that this is harmful to children" the premier said. "We need to do everything we can to keep our children safe and healthy."
Anti-smoking advocates and numerous medical authorities support the idea, though many smokers see it as an invasion of their privacy and wonder if they'll one day be prohibited from smoking inside their homes. Others suggest that the law will be difficult for police to enforce.
Ontario motorists caught smoking with passengers under 16 on board will be faced with a $250 fine.
photo:Jupiter Images