Early Childhood Council

Protecting Children from Secondhand Smoke Project-

The 2006 Surgeon General’s Report titled The Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Tobacco Smoke concluded that Secondhand Smoke (SHS) causes lower respiratory distress, middle ear disease, increased coughing and wheezing, and decreased lung growth in children. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that between 200,000 and one million asthmatic children annually have exacerbations of their condition due to SHS exposure, often resulting in hospitalization. More locally, an analysis of pediatric smoking related illness at Children’s Hospital in Denver, found that 40% of children admitted for respiratory emergencies were exposed to SHS in the home. Research shows that children who have a parent that smokes are more likely themselves to smoke and to be heavier smokers at a young age.

Funded through a state Tony Grampsas Youth Services grant, the Early Childhood Council and Tobacco Free Larimer County have joined efforts to make protecting children from exposure to secondhand smoke a community-wide priority in Larimer County. Tobacco Free Larimer County is an integral partner that supports the community, parents, and those who care for children in providing clean air to young children

Activities include:

• Training early childhood professionals and childcare providers about the health consequences of exposing children to secondhand smoke (www.raisesmokefreekids.com) and the resources available for persons who want to quit (www.coquitline.com)
• Encouraging parents and other family members to step outside the home and car when they smoke
• Assisting childcare centers develop policies that enhance the Tobacco Free Schools Law
• Collaborating with local nurse consultants to reinforce SHS messages in the Centers they serve

For information about the Secondhand Smoke Project, contact Tobacco Free Larimer County at www.tobaccofreelarimer.org. You can also contact project coordinator Jan Moraczewski by email or by calling (970)498-6883.