Homes and Cars

How to talk to someone about making their home smoke-free:

1. Do your own research on the dangers of secondhand smoke so that you can relay the information to the other individual in an informed manner. Consider bringing documents highlighting the dangers of secondhand smoke (example, brochures) and information on where they can go to find out more. Here are some good places to start.
• American Lung Association
• American Cancer Society
• National Cancer Institute
2. Limit the conversation to the dangers of secondhand smoke to the child's health.
3. If the child has documented illnesses caused by or made worse by secondhand smoke (for example, asthma) cite these. Remember that your child does not need to have a pre-existing condition for you to be concerned about the effects of exposure to secondhand smoke. It is perfectly valid for you to be concerned about a healthy child's exposure to secondhand smoke.
4. Do not let the conversation become a personal attack. Let the individual know that while you might wish they would quit smoking, you respect their right to make decisions regarding their own health.
5. Let the individual how you would like the home to be, but be ready to discuss various options for a smoke-free home.
6. If the individual indicates they would like to quit smoking, be ready with information about how they can do it and who can help. Let them know you'll stand behind their effort.