Smokefree cars
There is no save level of exposure to secondhand smoke.
What’s the Problem?
Due to the small interior space of a car, an increased concentration of smoke can be produced quickly. A car in which someone is smoking with the window down and the cigarette hanging out the window between puffs, is as toxic as a very smoky bar.
Opening a window or aiming your tobacco smoke out of a window isn't enough as the smoke often blows back into the car. If the windows are closed, then it will be twice as toxic as a very smoky bar. The deadly gases in secondhand smoke can linger for hours, even when windows are open.
So what is the solution?
The easiest step you can take towards addressing these problems is to make your car smokefree.
Here are some simple steps
- Do not smoke in the car and do not allow others to smoke in your car
- Take smoking breaks when travelling to protect children and give everyone a break
- Hang a sign from the dashboard or on a window, reminding your passengers not to smoke
- Empty the ashtray and fill it with sweets or loose change
- Wash your car and vacuum all floors and upholstery
A recent study conducted by Wellington School of Medicine found that smoking in the car with the window closed is 100 times more polluted than the fumes at a busy traffic intersection.
What will a smokefree car mean?
- A smokefree car will be cleaner, fresher and more comfortable
- A smokefree car can be easier to sell, with a higher resale value.
- Less distractions. The Highway Code lists smoking while driving a distraction.