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By Somerset Public Health
Most people in Somerset County live a tobacco-free life. Schools, libraries, child care centers and other youth-serving organizations across our county are adopting tobacco-free policies. These policies are critical to creating healthy environments for everyone while helping discourage youth from ever starting a tobacco use habit.
In Maine, tobacco use is responsible for nearly 2,400 deaths each year, equal to almost seven a day, causing one in five of all deaths. Studies show that 95% of adult smokers begin smoking before age 21. The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids reports that an estimated 27,000 children under 18 alive in Maine today will die prematurely from smoking. Adopting tobacco-free policies is one proven strategy to reduce the initiation of tobacco use by young people.
“Having a policy means we’re providing a safe place for families while also sending a positive message to counter the media’s glamorization of smoking and vaping,” said Darryll White, director of Lake George Regional Park, about the importance of having a smoke-free policy.
Jenny Currier, owner of Grins N’ Giggles Child Care, also expressed her support of tobacco-free policies. “Exposure to tobacco smoke is dangerous — especially for infants and children. Having a policy helps protect kiddos from both second-hand and third-hand smoke,” she said.
Now, it’s your turn! No matter your business, agency, or organization, adopt a policy that exceeds Maine’s minimum requirements, and you’ll be eligible for a mini-grant of up to $250. Call 207-474-7473 or visit SomersetPublicHealth.org by May 10 to learn more.
This Somerset Public Health project is funded through Maine Prevention Services. Maine Prevention Services is an initiative through the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention working across the state to impact tobacco, substance use, and obesity.
Somerset Public Health is a coalition of staff members, community members, organizations, and businesses working together to improve health in Somerset County. Its goal is to make Somerset County a healthier place to live and work for the families it serves.
To learn more about Somerset Public Health’s prevention education and policy efforts, contact Casey at dcasey@rfgh.net. For more information about Somerset Public Health, visit somersetpublichealth.org or find it on Facebook at facebook.com/SomersetPublicHealth or Instagram at @SomersetPublicHealth.
