Tobacco-Free Environments to Protect Youth

Secondhand and thirdhand smoke and aerosol is especially harmful to babies and children, who cannot control the environments where they are exposed. Kansas communities can take action to protect this vulnerable population from the damaging effects of secondhand and thirdhand smoke and vapor exposure. Children who grow up in smoke-free environments: 

  • Are at lower risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) 
  • Have lower risk of having bronchitis and pneumonia, and have fewer ear infections 
  • Have fewer issues with wheezing and coughing 
  • Are less likely to ever have asthma 
  • Are less likely to become smokers as teenagers
  1. Parks & Recreation
  2. Childcare
  3. Multi-Unit Housing

Parks, Recreation Settings & Events

Many Kansas communities have already implemented tobacco-free parks ordinances and policies. Municipalities, school districts, youth sports organizations and other groups are invited to join the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and Chronic Disease Risk Reduction (CDRR) Grant Program in eliminating children’s exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosol at public parks, recreation settings and events. Policy initiatives are key strategies in influencing community norms and are effective ways to limit exposure to secondhand smoke. This initiative protects the environment and protects the health of all. 

Kansas Young Lungs at Play Toolkit (PDF)

TYoung Lungs at Play Toolkit Opens in new windowhe Young Lungs at Play! Toolkit includes resources, templates and information on implementing effective policies and procedures to promote tobacco-free parks and recreational areas. It can assist communities in ensuring that all forms of tobacco use are prohibited where children play.