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Secondhand smoke hurts everyone.

You don’t have to use tobacco to be affected by it. Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause serious health issues for those who are exposed to it.

Child hold her nose because of secondhand smoke while her parent smokes in the car

What is secondhand smoke?

Secondhand smoke is a combination of two things: smoke that comes from the end of a burning cigarette and smoke that is exhaled from the mouth of the smoker.

What’s so bad about secondhand smoke?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that secondhand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals — many of which cause cancer. When you breathe secondhand smoke, it is just like you are smoking. Since 1964, 2.5 million nonsmokers have died from exposure to secondhand smoke.

Who is harmed by secondhand smoke?

  • Unborn babies are harmed when their mothers smoke.
  • Babies who breathe secondhand smoke could die from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
  • Children subjected to secondhand smoke are more likely to have lung problems, ear infections, and severe asthma.
  • Adults exposed to secondhand smoke over time can die from cancer and heart disease.

What can I do to keep secondhand smoke from harming others?

  • Don’t smoke in your home or car. Take it outside.
  • Don’t allow others to smoke in your home or car.
  • Don’t allow smoking near your doorways or entrances.
  • Teach your kids to stay away from secondhand smoke.

Report indoor smoking where it is prohibited.

See smoking in a place where it’s not allowed? Let us know. The Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking in indoor public places and workplaces in Delaware to protect you and others from secondhand smoke.

Call 1-800-297-5926 to report a violation.