Keeping Children Smoke-Free 

As January is Tobacco Reduction Month, this is a good time to think about how to keep your child’s 
environment smoke-free. 

Tobacco Facts: 

• 
Tobacco smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals including at least 70 which are carcinogenic or 
cause cancer. 
• 
The top 6 toxins which are released when a tobacco product is burned are: tar, nicotine, carbon 
monoxide, formaldehyde, hydrogen cyanide, and benzene. 
• 
Besides cancer, smoking is responsible for many other diseases. 
• 
Because children breathe faster than adults, they are particularly sensitive to second-hand smoke. 
Asthma rates are much higher in children whose parents smoke, and children are more likely to 
develop ear infections if exposed to second-hand smoke. 
• 
E-cigarettes are not recommended by Health Canada because of possible health risks, nicotine 
poisoning and addiction. 
Tips for Talking to Children: 

• 
Take advantage of opportunities to let your child know about the harmful effects of tobacco. 
• 
Talk to your child about peer pressure and practice how to say “No”. 
What Else You Can Do: 

• 
Quit smoking, and/or be a positive role model. 
• 
Protect your child from second-hand smoke. 
Need Help? Go to: www.smokershelpline.ca or call toll-free1-877-513-5333. 

http://www.nbatc.ca/en/ 

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hc-ps/tobac-tabac/body-corps/index-eng.php