Car and Home: Smoke Free Zone campaign

Did you know 8% of all childhood asthma attacks are caused by Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS), or in other words, passive smoking?

ETS is also responsible for an increased risk to children of SIDS, respiratory illnesses and ear infections. ETS is more likely to harm infants and children because they have smaller airways and immature immune systems.

That’s according to The ETS and Children Project Taskforce, a unique partnership of government and four non-government organisations – the Cancer Council (NSW), Sids and Kids (NSW), Heart Foundation and Asthma Australia (NSW) together with NSW Health.

The aim of the task force is to improve awareness about the risks of ETS to children.

Studies have shown that it is not enough to reduce the amount smoked inside, or waiting until children are in bed. A total ban on smoking in the house and car is the most effective way to protect children from the harmful effects of smoke.

Visit Car and Home: Smoke Free Zone for information for parents and carers on preventative measures, research and evidence as well as fact sheets and other resources available.

The information provided in this article is intended as a guide only. Always consult your doctor if you or your child is suffering any medical complaint. Any websites referred to by Australian Family contain information moderated by government and medical institutions or organisations.

This article was first published in Australian Family Magazine, February 2004. Updated July 2009.